League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Coaching

Erik Pieters emphasizes club culture as Stoke academy coach

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 17, 2026, 2:33 PM

Last updated Jul 17, 2026

Erik Pieters emphasizes club culture as Stoke academy coach

Summary

Stoke City's new academy coach, Erik Pieters, aims to instill the club's values in young players. Pieters, who played six seasons with Stoke, intends to share his experience and emphasize the importance of dedication and connection to the club's DNA. He believes that hard work and passion are essential for player development. Pieters is also set to participate as an overage player while coaching. The club seeks to reconnect with the fans' expectations of genuine effort from the players.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Erik Pieters returns to Stoke City as academy coach.
•He played six seasons with the club, becoming a cult hero.
•Pieters will also play as an overage player.
•He stresses the importance of heart and desire for the badge.
•The club aims to foster connections with the fans.

Latest Updates

2:33 PMYahoo Sports — Stoke fans want to see heart and desire - Pieters

What they're saying

"
Stoke City's new academy coach Erik Pieters says it is vital the club's young players understand what it means to play for the Potters.
— Yahoo Sports

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