Million Manhoef is eager to get back on the pitch in front of Stoke City fans at the bet365 Stadium. He emphasizes that Stoke must focus on the fundamentals, ensuring they win individual and team battles to succeed in the Championship. Reflecting on his initial months at the club since his transfer from Vitesse Arnhem, Manhoef acknowledges the steep learning curve and the necessity of hard work and teamwork to succeed. “If you win your duels and work hard together, then the football comes out,” he notes.
Manhoef, expected to bring flair and threat on the right wing this season, highlights the importance of unpredictability and effective runs, both with and without the ball. He recognizes the preseason imperfections but remains optimistic as the team gears up for their first league match at home against Coventry City, led by new signing Ben Gibson. With Viktor Johansson in goal, there is hope that Gibson’s leadership and defensive prowess will have a significant impact. Manhoef praises Gibson’s influence, stating, “He’s a big personality in the team and keeps everyone sharp at the back. That’s something we really needed.”
At 22, Manhoef is excited about the upcoming season, aiming to break Stoke’s cycle of bottom-half finishes. Despite his short time at the club, he has grown fond of the Championship and is eager to see how the season unfolds. He hopes to help the team climb the table, contributing with goals and assists, while also improving as a player. Reflecting on the previous season, he sees promise in their strong finish and feels confident about the team’s potential. “If we can win the duels every game, I think we can have a great season,” he asserts.
Manhoef has set personal targets for goals and assists, having scored four and set up one in his first 14 appearances. While he keeps his specific goals to himself, he expresses his ambition to consistently score. All his goals came in the final three home matches of the season, showcasing his love for playing at the bet365 Stadium and the energy he derives from the fans. The support from the crowd, whether at home or away, motivates him to excel, particularly as a winger looking to create opportunities. “When you can hear the fans, it gives you more motivation,” he says, underscoring the importance of fan support for the team’s success.