Willem II coach John Stegeman said there was little optimism around the team ahead of the away match against Sparta, although he wanted to protect the players as a group. He said the team could focus on negativity, but that he did not want to do so.

After Willem II’s 3–2 defeat at Sparta, Stegeman acknowledged that he felt increasing pressure and responsibility as criticism intensified. He also addressed the possibility that his players might no longer believe in him.