Dutch defender Sam Beukema, who has captured the hearts of Bologna fans, is more than just impressive statistics. With his sunny disposition and easy smile, Beukema has become a key player for the Italian club, both in Serie A and the Champions League.
The 26-year-old centre-back has made a name for himself as the only defender in Serie A with at least 15 games played without receiving a single card. He leads the league in aerial duels won and has been a constant presence in Bologna’s Champions League campaign, topping the charts for completed passes.
Despite interest from big clubs like Juventus, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan, Beukema remains committed to Bologna. “I’m in love with Bologna and I’m only thinking about returning to Europe with this club,” he says. The city holds a special place in his heart, reminding him of childhood summers spent in nearby Riccione.
As Bologna prepares to face Torino on Valentine’s Day, Beukema hopes to give fans a romantic gift: “Three points for our supporters and us. And maybe even a goal from me, which I’ve been missing for a while.”
Beukema credits the team’s success to their strong bond. “We’re a family. A single body. And if we play with humility, we know we can do anything against anyone.” He speaks fondly of the friendship among the players, mentioning a group chat he shares with teammates like Joshua Zirkzee and Dan Ndoye.
The defender’s journey to success wasn’t always smooth. He recalls a time when his former club, Go Ahead Eagles, lacked faith in him. “They told me they didn’t have confidence in me, even invited me to look elsewhere or stay with a minimum salary. I stayed. Little by little, I gained trust, someone got injured, and I found the right opportunities.”
Off the pitch, Beukema is an avid reader, preferring non-fiction that helps him grow. He recently read “Black Box Thinking,” which he says helps learn from mistakes in various professions.
As for his future goals, Beukema remains optimistic about both earning a call-up to the Dutch national team and securing Champions League qualification with Bologna. “Nothing is easy,” he says with a big smile. “Why not both? I’ll keep going like this, and then…”
