From demoted youth to becoming a Premier League record breaker
In short: Matz Sels' journey is a masterclass in professional resilience. After being sidelined for refusing to sign a contract, he rose from the Belgian second division to become the first Nottingham Forest player to ever win a monthly award in the Premier League.
Sels' early career was marked by a significant setback that could have ended his trajectory. After making his debut for Lierse in 2010 and becoming their primary goalkeeper in 2012, he was demoted to the second team at the start of the 2013–14 season because he refused to sign a new contract. He eventually moved to Gent, where he played a pivotal role in securing the club's first-ever national championship during the 2014–15 Belgian Pro League season.
His transition to the English Premier League with Newcastle United in 2016 was fraught with scrutiny. Despite initial success, he faced intense criticism from fans after conceding a late goal against Aston Villa, leading to his removal from the starting lineup by manager Rafa Benítez. He later found redemption and stability abroad, moving to Strasbourg in 2018, where he earned 'Player of the Season' honors during his first year.
Sels reached a historic milestone upon joining Nottingham Forest in February 2024. On March 2, he made a point-blank save against Liverpool that secured him the Premier League Save of the Month award, making him the first player in the club's history to achieve such an honor. His consistency culminated in the 2024–25 season, where he shared the Golden Glove with David Raya after recording 13 clean sheets.
His accolades reflect a diverse career across three major leagues. He was named Belgian Goalkeeper of the Season for 2015–16 and Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Season for 2021–22. By the end of the 2024–25 season, his elite status was cemented by multiple honors, including being named to the PFA Team of the Year and the Premier League Fan Team of the Season.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Matz Sels
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