Feyenoord assistant manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has said that he is delighted star players Stefan de Vrij and Jordy Clasie have agreed new deals at De Kuip.
The former Arsenal midfielder said that the club would not have prevented them leaving as a number of clubs queued to make offers.
However, the Rotterdam-based club persuaded the pair to pen extensions, which Van Bronkhorst said will help the them challenge for the title next season.
"As a club, we really wanted them to stay but the decision is always has to be the player's," the 38-year-old told Sky Sports News.
"We are happy they will stay because it means we can keep our squad together and challenge for the title next year."
Feyenoord finished third in the Eredivisie this season, seven points behind champions Ajax.
