How a rejected academy prospect rose to become a Serie A star
In short: At 18, Tijjani Noslin was released by FC Twente because of his height. Today, the Dutch forward is a key figure in Italy's top flight. His journey from amateur Dutch sides to a €15.9 million transfer to Lazio is a testament to persistence and direct playing style.
Tijjani Noslin's professional ascent was far from linear. Born in Amsterdam to parents of Surinamese descent, his early footballing career was marked by several setbacks. After being released by FC Den Bosch at age 14, he returned to Amsterdam to play for lower-league youth teams. Even more critically, he was released by FC Twente's academy at age 18, with the club specifically citing his lack of height as the reason for his departure. He spent time in 's-Hertogenbosch before returning to his hometown. His youth development also included stints with ASV Arsenal, Buitenveldert and Swift.
Following a failed trial at a Manchester academy, Noslin played for amateur clubs like USV Hercules and DHSC. His breakthrough came in 2021 when he joined Eredivisie side Fortuna Sittard on a free transfer. During his time there, he caught the attention of experts like former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart, who praised his directness and dangerous playing style on Studio Voetbal. He previously spent time at TOP Oss before his move to Fortuna Sittard. During his time at DHSC, he was mentored by Wesley Sneijder.
Noslin's rapid rise continued through the Italian leagues. After a stint at Hellas Verona—where he helped the club maintain Serie A status and scored against Juventus in February 2024—he moved to Lazio on 30 June 2024. The transfer, which followed manager Marco Baroni from Verona to the capital, cost a reported €15.9 million. Since joining Lazio, he has demonstrated his versatility as a winger and striker, notably scoring a senior hat-trick against Napoli in the Coppa Italia on 5 December 2024. His Serie A debut occurred during a draw against Frosinone. He also made his European debut in a Europa League match against Dynamo Kyiv.
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