Arnold Bruggink urges PSV to drop Dennis Man for youth against FC Porto

FC Porto is scheduled to host PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday at 22:00. This fixture marks the third round of the UEFA Champions League main phase. The match comes at a critical time for the Dutch side as they look to improve their standing in the competition.

PSV entered this European campaign with mixed results. The team drew 1-1 with Shakhtar Donetsk in their opening match. They followed that result with a 0-1 defeat against Leipzig in the second round. These outcomes have placed pressure on the squad ahead of the clash with Porto.

Domestic form has also raised questions. PSV lost 1-2 to ADO Den Haag on Saturday. Dennis Man started the match but was substituted at halftime. This domestic setback adds to the scrutiny surrounding the team's attacking options.

Dennis Man is a 28-year-old Romanian international who plays for PSV under coach Peter Bosz. He was part of the squad that became Dutch champion last season. During that campaign, he recorded 11 goals and seven assists in 40 official matches.

However, his current season statistics show a decline in output. Man has made five appearances this season without registering any goals or assists. Transfermarkt currently values him at 12,000,000 euros. This lack of direct contribution has drawn attention from observers.

Former Dutch international Arnold Bruggink has voiced strong criticism regarding the current situation. According to reports, Bruggink described both Man and teammate Esmir Bajraktarevic as resentful. He suggested that PSV should replace them with younger players to address these issues.

Bajraktarevic has recorded one goal and three assists in the 2026-2027 season. He holds a market value of 10,000,000 euros. Despite these contributions, Bruggink included him in his critique of the squad's attitude and performance levels.

Bruggink specifically recommended starting 17-year-old Mikkel Bro Hansen against FC Porto. He cited the young player's mature impression as a reason for this change. This suggestion highlights a potential shift in strategy toward youth development during high-stakes matches.