Matz Sels

Matz Sels, a talented Belgian goalkeeper, plays for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Born on February 26, 1992, Sels is known for his strong presence in goal, his shot-stopping abilities, and his leadership on the pitch. Standing at 188 cm and weighing 75 kg, he combines his physicality with impressive technical skills, making him a vital part of Forest’s defensive unit. This profile covers Sels' career journey, playing style, and his time at Nottingham Forest.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Matz Sels was born in Belgium and began his football journey at a young age. His talent was evident early on, and he quickly rose through the ranks of Belgian football. He started his professional career at the renowned Belgian club, KAA Gent. During his time at Gent, Sels made a name for himself as a solid and reliable goalkeeper, showcasing his ability to make crucial saves and lead from the back.

Sels’ performances for Gent were impressive, and he quickly became one of the top goalkeepers in the Belgian Pro League. His commanding presence in goal earned him a call-up to the Belgian national team, and he was seen as a potential successor to the country’s top goalkeepers.

Career at Newcastle United

In 2016, Sels made the move to the English Premier League, signing with Newcastle United. While his time at Newcastle didn’t feature as many appearances as he would have liked, it was an important step in his career. Sels had to compete for the starting goalkeeper position, but he gained valuable experience in the competitive Premier League environment.

Though he didn’t always feature as a starter for Newcastle, his ability to perform when called upon was evident. His time in England helped further develop his skills and understand the demands of playing in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.

Move to Strasbourg and Success in France

After his time at Newcastle, Matz Sels moved to France to join RC Strasbourg in Ligue 1 in 2018. It was here that Sels found his form and cemented his status as one of the top goalkeepers in French football. Over the next few years, he established himself as a key figure for Strasbourg, helping the club compete at a high level in Ligue 1.

Sels' performances in France were solid, and his shot-stopping ability, quick reflexes, and excellent decision-making made him a fan favorite. His consistent performances caught the attention of many European clubs, and his reputation as a reliable goalkeeper grew.

Move to Nottingham Forest

In 2022, Matz Sels made a move to Nottingham Forest, joining the club in a crucial period as they looked to strengthen their squad for their return to the Premier League. At Forest, Sels brought his experience and leadership to the team, providing stability in goal and contributing to the club’s defensive organization.

Sels’ role at Forest has been to compete for the starting goalkeeper position and provide a steady presence in the net. His time at the club so far has shown his ability to make crucial saves and command his defense, earning him the respect of fans and teammates alike. As a 33-year-old, Sels brings a wealth of experience that helps guide the team both on and off the pitch.

Playing Style and Attributes

Matz Sels is known for his strong shot-stopping ability and quick reflexes. As a goalkeeper, his height and physicality are key advantages, allowing him to cover a large area of the goal. Sels is particularly effective at dealing with high crosses and shots on goal, using his agility and sharp decision-making to make crucial saves.

In addition to his shot-stopping skills, Sels is a vocal presence on the field, often organizing his defense and giving instructions to his backline. His leadership qualities make him a natural fit as a goalkeeper who can control the tempo of the game from the back. He’s also known for his composure in high-pressure situations, a trait that has served him well in the top leagues of both Belgium and France.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Matz Sels has achieved a number of notable milestones. At KAA Gent, he won the Belgian Pro League title, solidifying his status as one of the top goalkeepers in Belgium. During his time at Strasbourg, he helped the club stay competitive in Ligue 1, playing key roles in important matches and showcasing his talent in Europe.

Sels' move to the Premier League with Nottingham Forest marked the latest step in his illustrious career, and he will be looking to make an impact in the English top-flight. His experience in top European leagues and his consistency in goal make him a valuable asset to Forest's defense.

Personal Life and Background

Off the field, Matz Sels is known for his humble and professional attitude. He is dedicated to improving his game and maintaining peak physical condition, and he takes his role as a leader on the pitch seriously. While not much is publicly known about his personal life, Sels has always maintained a low-key presence off the field, focusing on his football career and personal development.

Future Prospects

At 33 years old, Matz Sels still has a number of years ahead of him at the top level of European football. His experience, leadership, and strong shot-stopping ability make him a valuable asset to Nottingham Forest as they look to establish themselves as a Premier League club.

As Forest continue to build for the future, Sels will likely remain an important figure in the team, providing stability and experience in goal. Whether he continues to play as a starting goalkeeper or provides key backup, his role in the team will continue to be critical in the years ahead.

Conclusion

Matz Sels has had a distinguished career as a goalkeeper, with notable spells at KAA Gent, Newcastle United, Strasbourg, and now Nottingham Forest. Known for his shot-stopping ability, leadership, and experience, Sels has proven himself to be a reliable and talented goalkeeper at the top level of European football. As he continues his career at Nottingham Forest, Sels will look to make a lasting impact in the Premier League.