15 juli 2024
‘Proud to be part of Jeremain’s career’
Jeremain’s long and eventful journey as a professional footballer has come to an end. At 36, after a career spanning almost twenty years, he’s hanging up his boots. We look back at Jeremain’s career with SEG board member Jeroen Hoogewerf, who has worked with him from the very beginning.
Jeroen has a vivid memory of that first meeting. “That was in 2005. I met a shy boy from Amsterdam Geuzenveld at our office, then still located on Tesselschadestraat in Amsterdam. He was flanked by his impressive older cousins Nelinio Greene and Jimmy Lens.”
It quickly became evident that Jeremain and Jeroen had an instant connection. “For me, that meeting marked the start of a special bond that exists to this day.”
The cousins said it was time for a more professional approach to their 17-year-old nephew’s career. Nelinio (who played at Vitesse) and Jimmy (HFC Haarlem) both had experience with professional football clubs and were familiar with the dynamics. “They acknowledged that Jeremain was exceptionally talented and believed it was time for professional guidance.”
Jeremain comes from a close-knit family. Mother Imelda, father Ricardo, brother Virgil and sister Charoma have been present throughout his career. “His parents have always worked incredibly hard,” confirms Jeroen. “They did everything to ensure a bright future for their children. They have always supported Jeremain, both on and off the field.”
The Lens household was a warm and welcoming place for everyone. Friends and family were always invited. “That’s how I’ve always felt with the Lens family: welcome. That seems normal, but it isn’t. It speaks volumes about the Lens family and especially about Jeremain.”
In his professional career, Jeremain played for nine different clubs (including loans) in six different countries. For the Dutch national team, he played 34 matches, scoring 8 goals. He became a national champion, won the cup and played in the Champions League and the 2014 World Cup.
“It was a long and very successful journey. Jeremain played on the highest stages of football. He once said he wanted to become a lawyer if football didn’t work out. That would have suited him well because he’s very articulate and can argue his points well. But I’m glad he chose football. From his first contract at AZ to his last contract at Versailles, SEG has been part of his career. We are very proud of that.”
“Jeremain has always stayed true to himself, despite often changing circumstances throughout his career. Every footballer who has played with him will confirm this. Jeremain leaves a positive impression on everyone. That’s what makes him a unique person.”
Memorable moments on the pitch
2010: Jeremain scores legendary 10-0 for PSV against Feyenoord
2011: Goal from an impossible angle for PSV against SV Ried
2011: Jeremain drives his opponent crazy and scores for PSV against Heracles
2017: Free kick and goal for Fenerbahçe against Manchester United
Podcast