Esmee Brugts: The 19-year-old revolutionizing women's football

Esmee Brugts stands as one of the most exciting new talents in women’s football. 

At just 19 years old, the attacking midfielder already forms an integral part of PSV Vrouwen and the Dutch national team. Her determination and drive inspired early success, setting herself up to become a defining figure in the game. 

Brugts first kicked off at the age of five, playing with boys for her hometown team SV Heinenoord. Despite the early challenges of being a girl in the sport, she tapped into her competitive edge to stand out among the rest. 

“I started to play football during school breaks. I was quite a sporty child, playing tennis, dancing and gymnastics. But I liked football so much, I decided to join the boys club. And I did not know it could be something I could make my job out of, but I just played because I liked it. And I mean, if you're kind of good at something, you'd like to see how far you can go. I always wanted to be the best. I think every child has that competitiveness in them. So did I,” she said in an interview with 90min. 

But it wasn’t until the Dutch Federation reached out to the player that she realized her true potential. 

“And then I got a letter from the Dutch Federation to try out for a youth team. When I arrived, I realized I was even younger than some girls. I realized then ‘Oh, this is getting serious’, you know? So I started doing that, and with every step, I achieved something more. and because I had so much pleasure, and I enjoyed it, I played well. And yeah, here I am now.”

Brugts joined FC Binnenmaas to further her development, working through the academy for eight years before signing her first professional contract with PSV Vrouwen in 2020 at just 16. She adapted quickly, scoring three goals in 13 games throughout her first campaign with the team. 

But it was her connection with PSV off the field that made a lasting impact in her career. 

“I was 16 when I first arrived in Eindhoven. I was young, but I felt very welcomed. We had some foreign players, so it was good for my English, and to learn about how they live. I used to hang out with them a lot, so I learned how to slowly become myself. Of course, it's a development every day, but I'd say this club really feels like a family, which is the best way to feel good. And when you feel good, you start playing better,” she said exclusively to 90min.  

Now, after almost three years with the club, Brugts continues to make history and break records. Overall, she’s managed 11 goals and five assists in 52 games in all competitions to inspire PSV Vrouwen to lift the KNVB Cup in 2021 and a constant place in the top four of the Eredivisie. 

It hasn’t always been easy for women in football to reach new heights. While Brugts recognizes her privilege of living in a time where the game is celebrated, she’s determined to revolutionize the space for those around her. 

“I have to say I'm quite lucky to be in this generation because there have been a lot of changes already. And I know we're not there yet, but I can enjoy the improvements that we already are experiencing now like, also the Champions League final in our stadium,” she said. 

“That's going to be so cool. And with the Dutch team now, a lot of fans watch us and  I really enjoy it. I cannot wait for what the future has to bring. But it's nice to feel like we deserve this. Of course, there's a lot of things that still need to be discussed, of course more change needs to happen and I will help do that. Seeing a difference is nice.”

Brugts’ continued success with PSV drove her to the Dutch national team, receiving several call ups before debuting in 2022 against Brazil during the Tournoi de France. Despite the intense competition for a spot on the roster, she was never one to shy away from a challenge. 

The midfielder used her creativity and versatility in the final third to compete among the best in Dutch football, and secure her place on the pitch. Now, she features alongside figures she once admired from the sidelines. 

“Well, when the Netherlands did well during the Euros, I, of course, watched. I was very involved. Sometimes there were matches in my neighborhood, so I followed them a lot. I liked Lika Martins, I admired her. which I can say now I'm kind of teammates with her. It’s crazy how much can change within five years.”

Her defining moment with the national team came on September 6, 2022, in the UEFA World Cup qualifier against Iceland. Brugts came off the bench in the 66th minute, replacing Renate Jansen. The winner earned a direct ticket to the World Cup, everything was on the line.

In the third minute of added time, Brugts connected with teammate Kerstin Casparij to send the ball into the back of the net to score the lone, game-winning goal. 

“My favorite moment on the field was when we qualified for the World Cup. My cross ended up in the net, and the whole stadium exploded. Everyone was so happy, and of course relieved because we deserved it so much. That has been one of my best moments so far playing this sport, I enjoyed it the most.”

Now, she’s looking forward to representing the Netherlands in the game’s biggest stage: the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“I hope to make an impact for the team, and enjoy the full experience. It's in Australia and New Zealand, it's so far away from home. But I still feel at home with the Dutch fans traveling there. This is such a big tournament for the women's game, every tournament is getting bigger and bigger, with more attention. And I just want to take it all in and enjoy it. And of course, play good football,” she said with a smile. 

Esmee Brugts is quickly revolutionizing women’s football.