Cillessen had the option to play abroad, but instead chose to join the Deventenaren. The 37-year-old goalkeeper has seen the best of the world and has played for clubs abroad in the past. He has also been approached by clubs from the Keuken Kampioen Divisie, but turned them down due to their preference for playing on artificial turf.

Cillessen's debut for Go Ahead Eagles was a significant moment for the club, and the goalkeeper is eager to prove himself as a valuable addition to the team. He has stated that he will train hard and try to make it difficult for the trainer to choose between him and Kjetil Haug as the club's second goalkeeper.