A year and a half without a club
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Jean-Paul Boëtius was without a club for a year and a half, but he has now signed with SV Darmstadt. The 30-year-old midfielder had recently remained fit with his youth club Feyenoord Rotterdam’s U21 team after his contract with Hertha BSC expired in the summer of 2023.
In September 2022, Boëtius was diagnosed with a tumor in his testicle, which had to be surgically removed. He then played 15 matches in the Bundesliga for Hertha BSC, but did not receive a new contract after relegation. In March 2024, he had to undergo cancer treatment again. He strengthens the midfield of the tenth team in the 2nd Bundesliga with the experience of 143 matches in the upper house of Hertha BSC and Mainz 05 – no SVD professional can boast more.
“He brings not only dynamism and creativity, but above all a big fighting heart. This has also been demonstrated by his personal struggle in recent years. Jean-Paul worked hard to be able to return to the field. It will still take time, but it will also benefit from our patience and support along the way. We firmly believe in him and are convinced that he will be able to prove his qualities to us,” said sporting director Paul Fernie.
Boëtius’ highest market value was in 2019 and was €6 million, but it has now fallen to €400,000. The Dutchman is confident about his return: “I am grateful for the opportunity given to Lilies and I am really looking forward to this club. The conversations with those responsible were sensational and confirmed my opinion that Darmstadt 98 was the right step for me. I want to reach this level as quickly as possible to be able to help the team.
