How do I get back the 11,000 euros I borrowed?

Questioner

I lent 11,000 euros to a then friend in November 2021. The only proof I have is the transfer that clearly states loan and what's app messages in which the other party admits to having borrowed this. He does not use the money for the purpose we agreed on (setting up a company). Now he has left for Spain with these 11,000 euros, of course without giving his address. I do have his name, wife's name and children's name, know in which region they live, have license plates of his two cars. And now the gentleman does not want to pay back. Is there a legal possibility to sue this gentleman to get my money back,

Lawyer

Yes, but you will need some (address) information about that gentleman and the fact that he has left for Spain will also complicate the procedure. It is also questionable whether there will be a recovery and whether you can prove what was agreed with regard to the loan. Do you know whether that gentleman still has assets in the Netherlands that could be seized? Think of an income, benefit, movable or immovable property (?)