De Cat: “I still need to improve in several areas”
TUESDAY, 23 SEPTEMBER 2025, 09:16 - lajoya
INTERVIEWS He is only 17 years old, with his socks casually pulled down, a determined look in his eyes, and ambitions that extend beyond the lines of the soccer field. Nathan De Cat, better known as “Catje,” is RSC Anderlecht's latest gem. In just a few months, he made the leap from the playground in his backyard to the fields of the Pro League, and managed to make his mark in a dressing room full of established names.
Great start in purple and white
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Continue reading De Cat showed his class on the very first match day against Westerlo (5-2 win). “He did everything right,” praised coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck. Since then, the young midfielder has been in the starting line-up in 9 of the 13 official matches – remarkable for someone who, not so long ago, was dribbling past his neighbors in the backyard.
Maturity and ambition
“I want to be a regular player, not just make short substitute appearances,” says De Cat with surprising clarity for his age. Even a painful mistake against Häcken — he caused a late penalty — couldn't break him. With the support of his teammates, his family, and his girlfriend Sarah Duranville, herself a soccer player and sister of Julien, he quickly found his rhythm again.
Unique style, strong character
His distinctive style is striking: small shin guards and sagging socks. “My parents think it's dangerous, Hasi calls it ridiculous,” he laughs. Yet behind that nonchalant look lies a physical, technically gifted, and sometimes daring midfielder. He once dared to try a Zidane move right in front of his own goal. “I need to learn to choose better when I do that,” he admits honestly.
Between school and professional soccer
At 1.92 meters tall, De Cat is literally a striking figure. Born prematurely, he quickly grew to be the tallest in the family. He doesn't have his driver's license yet, so he commutes between training sessions and classes in Wemmel. His dreams? Both a diploma and a title with Anderlecht.
Future prospects
His favorite club? FC Barcelona. His career plan? “To be on the field tomorrow.” No complicated calculations, no premature transfer plans — just soccer. And maybe, someday, a place with the Red Devils.
