The football-loving supporter in AZ's defence: 'I slept under an AZ duvet'

AZ defender Lewis Schouten, a lifelong club supporter who grew up in Alkmaar, has become a regular starter and dreams of winning the Eredivisie title with his boyhood club.

Lewis Schouten's journey from AZ supporter to first-team defender is the stuff of childhood dreams. The 22-year-old, born and raised in Alkmaar, grew up immersed in the club's culture—wearing AZ shirts, sleeping under AZ bedding, and attending matches from an early age. His father also played for the club, deepening the family connection.

Schouten recalls vivid memories of AZ's greatest moments: the 2013 cup final victory and the 2009 Eredivisie title, which he watched as a five-year-old alongside his father. He even served as a mascot for Simon Poulsen at one point. Now, having progressed through the academy, he has established himself as a regular in the team's defence.

Looking ahead, Schouten is ambitious about AZ's title prospects. While acknowledging that Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord are favourites, he believes AZ and FC Twente can mount a genuine challenge. He emphasises the importance of maintaining positivity throughout the season and learning from setbacks like the recent draw with SC Cambuur. Winning the Eredivisie with AZ would represent the ultimate realisation of his childhood dream.