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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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Jan Paul van Hecke

Jan Paul van Hecke is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a centre-back.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jan Paul van Hecke is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a centre-back. Born in Arnemuiden, Netherlands, he has played in English club football and has been selected for the Netherlands national team.

Early life

Van Hecke was born in Arnemuiden, in the Dutch province of Zeeland. Public player profiles list him as a Dutch national and a right-footed defender.

Club career

Sources identify van Hecke as a defender for Brighton & Hove Albion and later Tottenham Hotspur. League and player-profile records show him competing in English professional football.

International career

Van Hecke has been selected for the Netherlands national team. Available profiles list him as a senior international for the Dutch side.

Playing style

He is listed as a centre-back, indicating a primary defensive role in central defence. Databases also identify him as right-footed.

Key facts

  • Van Hecke was born on 8 June 2000 in Arnemuiden, Netherlands.
  • He is a professional footballer who primarily plays as a centre-back.
  • He has been associated with Brighton & Hove Albion and Tottenham Hotspur in English club football.
  • He has represented the Netherlands at senior international level.
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Canadian context

Canadian readers may know van Hecke through coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, where the Netherlands are one of the teams of interest.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Jan Paul van Hecke?
He is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a centre-back and has appeared for the Netherlands national team.
When was Jan Paul van Hecke born?
He was born on 8 June 2000.
Where is Jan Paul van Hecke from?
He was born in Arnemuiden, Zeeland, in the Netherlands.
What position does Jan Paul van Hecke play?
He plays as a centre-back, a central defensive position.
Which clubs has Jan Paul van Hecke played for?
Public profiles identify Brighton & Hove Albion and Tottenham Hotspur among his English club teams.
Does Jan Paul van Hecke play for the Netherlands?
Yes. Player profiles list him as a Netherlands senior international.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Paul_van_Hecke
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, position, and general player identification.
  2. Premier League — https://www.premierleague.com/en/players/469142/jan-paul-van-hecke/overview
    Supports: Nationality, date of birth, preferred foot, and appearances/goals.
  3. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/stats/_/id/282583/jan-paul-van-hecke
    Supports: Position, nationality, birthdate, club history, and seasonal appearances.
  4. Transfermarkt — https://www.transfermarkt.us/jan-paul-van-hecke/profil/spieler/576314
    Supports: Place of birth, height, position, club history, and contract information.