Wout Weghorst, a towering presence on the pitch, has carved a niche for himself as a prolific goal scorer. From his early days in the Netherlands to his impactful spells in Germany, England, and back to the Bundesliga, Weghorst’s career has been a fascinating journey of consistent performance and a relentless pursuit of goals. This article delves deep into Weghorst’s stats, exploring his strengths, analyzing his playing style, and answering some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding this formidable striker.
Early Career and Breakthrough at AZ Alkmaar
Weghorst’s professional journey began in the Netherlands, where he honed his skills and developed his predatory instincts in front of goal. He gradually rose through the ranks, showcasing his talent for finding the back of the net. His time at AZ Alkmaar proved to be a true breakthrough, where he blossomed into a consistent goal scorer in the Eredivisie. He consistently delivered impressive goal tallies, attracting attention from clubs across Europe. His physicality, aerial prowess, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders. During his time at AZ, his stats demonstrated a striker who was not just about goals, but also about contributing to the overall team play, often linking up well with midfielders and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Bundesliga Stardom with Wolfsburg
Weghorst’s impressive performances in the Eredivisie earned him a move to the Bundesliga with VfL Wolfsburg. This move proved to be a pivotal moment in his career, as he cemented his status as one of the most reliable goalscorers in the league. His time at Wolfsburg was marked by a remarkable consistency. Season after season, he delivered double-digit goal tallies, becoming a fan favorite and a crucial player for the team. His imposing physical presence and his knack for being in the right place at the right time made him a constant threat in the box. He became renowned for his heading ability, often winning aerial duels against multiple defenders.
Analyzing his Bundesliga stats reveals a player who was more than just a target man. He displayed a good understanding of the game, often dropping deep to link up play and bring his teammates into the game. His work rate was also commendable, as he consistently pressed defenders and contributed defensively. He wasn’t just a goal poacher; he was a complete forward who contributed to all aspects of his team’s performance. His goal-scoring record at Wolfsburg placed him among the Bundesliga’s elite strikers, attracting interest from top clubs across Europe.
A Premier League Challenge with Burnley
Weghorst’s success in the Bundesliga led him to a new challenge in the Premier League with Burnley. While his time at Burnley was shorter than his spells at AZ and Wolfsburg, it provided him with valuable experience in one of the most competitive leagues in the world. He faced tough defenses and adapted to the physicality of the Premier League. Though his goal return wasn’t as prolific as it had been in previous clubs, he showed glimpses of his quality and contributed to the team’s efforts. The Premier League presented a different style of play, and Weghorst worked hard to adapt his game. He continued to show his aerial prowess and his ability to hold up the ball, providing a focal point for Burnley’s attack.
Return to the Bundesliga: Hoffenheim
Following his stint in England, Weghorst returned to the Bundesliga, joining Hoffenheim. This move allowed him to rediscover his rhythm and rediscover his goal-scoring touch. Back in familiar surroundings, he quickly integrated into the team and began contributing goals. His experience in different leagues proved valuable, as he brought a more well-rounded game to Hoffenheim. He continued to be a threat in the air, and his link-up play with his teammates improved. His return to the Bundesliga demonstrated his resilience and his desire to continue playing at the highest level.
Analyzing Weghorst’s Playing Style
Weghorst is a classic number nine, a traditional center-forward who thrives in the box. His key strengths include:
Aerial Prowess: He is exceptional in the air, winning a high percentage of aerial duels. His height, timing, and heading technique make him a constant threat from crosses and set pieces.
Physicality: He possesses a strong and imposing physique, allowing him to hold up the ball, shield it from defenders, and create space for his teammates.
Finishing: He is a clinical finisher, capable of scoring with both his head and his feet. He has a knack for being in the right place at the right time, anticipating rebounds and loose balls in the box.
Work Rate: Weghorst is known for his high work rate, pressing defenders, tracking back, and contributing defensively. He is a team player who is willing to put in the effort for the greater good.
Link-up Play: While primarily a goalscorer, Weghorst is also capable of linking up play with his teammates, bringing midfielders into the game and creating scoring opportunities.
FAQs
What are Wout Weghorst’s career statistics?
As of January 19, 2025, Weghorst’s club career statistics are as follows:
FC Emmen (2012–2014): 62 appearances, 20 goals.
Heracles Almelo (2014–2016): 64 appearances, 20 goals.
AZ Alkmaar (2016–2018): 60 appearances, 31 goals.
VfL Wolfsburg (2018–2022): 118 appearances, 59 goals.
Burnley (2022–2024): 22 appearances, 2 goals.
Beşiktaş (loan, 2022–2023): 16 appearances, 8 goals.
Manchester United (loan, 2023): 17 appearances, 0 goals.
TSG Hoffenheim (loan, 2023–2024): 28 appearances, 7 goals.
Ajax (2024–present): 15 appearances, 6 goals.
In total, he has made 402 club appearances and scored 155 goals.
How has Wout Weghorst performed internationally?
Weghorst made his senior debut for the Netherlands in March 2018. As of November 19, 2024, he has earned 43 caps and scored 14 goals for the national team. Notably, during the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, he scored two crucial goals to level the match, which eventually led to a penalty shootout.
What was Wout Weghorst’s impact at VfL Wolfsburg?
During his tenure at VfL Wolfsburg from 2018 to 2022, Weghorst made 118 appearances and scored 59 goals. His consistent goal-scoring significantly contributed to the team’s performances in the Bundesliga and European competitions.
How did Wout Weghorst fare during his loan at Manchester United?
In January 2023, Weghorst joined Manchester United on loan. He made 17 Premier League appearances but did not score any goals. Despite his limited goal tally, he was noted for his work rate and pressing abilities.
What are Wout Weghorst’s statistics with Ajax?
After joining Ajax in August 2024, Weghorst has made 15 appearances and scored 6 goals as of January 19, 2025. He continues to be an integral part of their attacking lineup.
How did Wout Weghorst perform in the 2022 FIFA World Cup?
In the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Weghorst made substitute appearances against Ecuador, Qatar, and the United States. His most memorable performance was in the quarter-final against Argentina, where he scored two late goals to equalize the match, sending it into extra time. The Netherlands eventually lost in the penalty shootout.
What is Wout Weghorst’s playing style?
Standing at 1.97 meters, Weghorst is often deployed as a target man due to his aerial ability and physical presence. He is known for his goal-poaching instincts, effective pressing, and ability to link up play, making him a versatile forward.
Has Wout Weghorst received any honors or awards?
While individual awards are not extensively documented, Weghorst was part of the Manchester United squad that won the EFL Cup in the 2022-23 season.
What are Wout Weghorst’s statistics in European competitions?
Throughout his career, Weghorst has participated in European competitions, including the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League. Notably, during the 2019-20 season with VfL Wolfsburg, he made 9 appearances in the Europa League, scoring 2 goals.
How has Wout Weghorst’s performance been in domestic cup competitions?
In domestic cup competitions across various leagues, Weghorst has made 39 appearances and scored 20 goals, showcasing his knack for finding the net in knockout formats.
To conclude
Wout Weghorst’s football journey reflects his adaptability and consistent goal-scoring across multiple European leagues. From his early days at FC Emmen to his current role at Ajax, he has demonstrated resilience and a keen eye for goal. Internationally, his contributions to the Netherlands national team, especially during high-stakes matches like the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, have cemented his reputation as a formidable striker. As he continues his career, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how his experience and skills contribute to both club and country performances.
To read more , click here
