The centre-back joined Chelsea from PSV at the start of last season, but was loaned back to the Dutch side to gain valuable experience. She then represented her country at the Women's Euro 2025 and caught the eye of those watching.

Unfortunately for Buurman, the Netherlands did not progress from a difficult group that also contained France and eventual winners England, but the youngster impressed nonetheless.

And when she was included in the Chelsea starting XI last Sunday against Leicester City, she says she was ready to perform.

'I was really happy to make my debut and to get my first minutes in the Women's Super League,' she reflects. 'Playing for Chelsea is something to be proud of. It was a special moment for me.

'In a way, it was easy because I played with Millie (Bright) and Nat (Nathalie Bjorn), and I’ve also played in training before with Nay (Naomi Girma). They are all really good players. I’ve learned a lot from them. It’s going really well. Playing on the left side, with three at the back, is really nice for me with my left foot.'

Slotting into a well-established defensive unit could be daunting for a young player. But Buurman sees the experience of her team-mates as a huge positive.

The young defender can step into a confident backline and immediately understand her role, and she feels like there's even more to come.

'I play with a lot of quality in this team, so that makes it easy for me,' Buurman explains. 'We can always improve, and I can improve on my performance from when I made my debut. I can improve a lot.

'I think as a team, we can do a lot of things. It's really easy because a lot of players know what they are doing. They can help me.'

Chelsea face their first match in the new league phase of the Women's Champions League when we make the trip to Twente on matchday one on 8 October.

And Buurman is delighted that she will once again return to her home country in European action this season.

'I'm looking forward to it,' she smiles. 'I hoped we would play in the Netherlands. Now I can play there wearing a Chelsea shirt. My family and friends are coming to watch the game. So that's really nice, too.'