Marcel Brands

Born in 's-Hertogenbosch, Brands started his playing career at local club FC Den Bosch. He also played for NAC Breda and Feyenoord, and made over 350 appearances for RKC Waalwijk, encompassing two separate spells.

After retiring he became technical director at RKC Waalwijk and appointed Martin Jol as club manager. In 2005 he moved to join AZ, along with manager Louis van Gaal, and in 2008-09 the club went on to win only their second ever Eredivisie title. Brands moved to PSV in 2010 to improve the club's transfer strategy and youth development. He would spend eight years with the club, in which time they won three Eredivisie titles, three Johan Cruyff Shields and one KNVB Cup. In May 2018 he joined English club Everton, replacing Steve Walsh as their director of Football. On 5 December 2021, Brands left the club with immediate effect.