Stan Henderikx has left Excelsior to join FC Dordrecht on a season-long loan. The central defender's move was confirmed on transfer deadline day, as reported by RTV Dordrecht.
The 23-year-old Henderikx is tasked with filling the void left by the departure of captain Sem Valk at Dordrecht. Valk himself moved to Telstar this transfer window, prompting the Eerste Divisie side to seek a new defensive pillar. Henderikx arrives from Excelsior, where he made ten Eredivisie appearances last season. "I am incredibly happy with the move to FC Dordrecht," the defender said via his new club's website. "The talks were positive and it feels good that the club has so much confidence in me."
What does the loan mean for Excelsior?
Henderikx's departure opens up space in Excelsior's defensive ranks. The Rotterdam club currently has several options for the centre-back positions. According to the club's squad data, players like Redouan El Yaakoubi and Siebe Horemans are established figures. Furthermore, Excelsior's youth academy offers potential for internal reinforcement. Loaning out Henderikx fits a broader pattern where players who see limited minutes get opportunities to gain experience elsewhere. For Excelsior, defence remains a key area of focus, especially given their current league position.
How has Henderikx's season gone so far?
Stan Henderikx moved from FC Den Bosch to Excelsior in the summer of 2025. At Den Bosch, he became a regular starter, playing 41 league matches and scoring twice. His first season in the Eredivisie, however, was less successful. He managed ten appearances but failed to make an impact with goals or assists. His limited playing time at Excelsior made a temporary move logical. FC Dordrecht now offers him the chance to play regularly in the Eerste Divisie and continue his development. The defender will aim to recapture the form he showed at FC Den Bosch.
What does FC Dordrecht's defence look like now?
With the arrival of Henderikx, the Sheep Heads have secured a direct replacement for the departed Sem Valk. Valk was a key leader and captain, leaving a significant gap. Henderikx is expected to fill that void and bring stability. The FC Dordrecht defence faces a challenging period ahead. The standings show the club is playing in the middle of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie table. Every point is important in the battle for potential play-off spots. Adding an experienced defender like Henderikx could be crucial. His physical presence and second-tier experience should strengthen the backline.
What are the immediate consequences for the squad?
The loan deal is effective immediately. Henderikx joins manager Michele Santoni's squad and will be available for the next league match. Excelsior itself now turns its attention to upcoming Eredivisie fixtures. The Rotterdammers currently sit in fourteenth place according to the latest standings data and will look to stabilise. Excelsior's next match is an away game against FC Utrecht, scheduled for Saturday, September 12th. The defender could make his first appearance for FC Dordrecht as early as Friday, September 11th, when the club faces TOP Oss.
