The Netherlands national team has officially announced its 26-man squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament, with coach Ronald Koeman making some notable choices that have sparked discussion among fans and analysts alike. While the inclusion of key players recovering from injury offers a boost, the exclusion of a rising star has raised eyebrows.
One of the most talked-about decisions is the omission of Borussia Dortmund’s in-form wing-back Ian Maatsen. Despite a series of impressive performances that significantly contributed to Dortmund’s journey to the Champions League final, Maatsen did not make the final cut. This decision leaves the Dutch squad without a natural left-back, a position Koeman suggested could be filled by veterans Daley Blind or Micky van de Ven. Maatsen’s exclusion is particularly surprising given his dynamism and attacking prowess from the left flank, qualities that could have offered a different dimension to the Netherlands’ play.
However, there’s positive news for Dutch fans as midfield maestro Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona and Atlético Madrid striker Memphis Depay have both been included in the squad. Both players are currently battling injuries, but Koeman expressed optimism about their fitness ahead of the Netherlands’ opening Group D match against Poland on June 16th in Hamburg. Depay, a crucial figure in the Oranje attack, is closing in on becoming the nation’s all-time top scorer, adding extra weight to his role in the team. De Jong’s commanding presence in midfield and his ability to drive forward are also seen as essential for the Netherlands’ aspirations in the tournament. Koeman stated that De Jong is expected to join the squad soon, with anticipation that he will be ready to start against Poland, though his ability to play a full 90 minutes remains to be seen.
Despite injury concerns, particularly in midfield, Koeman conveyed a sense of cautious optimism about his team’s chances at Euro 2024 in Germany. “We have a team that is hard to beat,” Koeman asserted. “We have a lot of creative quality in the forwards, so I think we have a strong team.” This blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents aims to replicate the success of the Netherlands’ historic victory at the 1988 European Championship, where Koeman himself was a key player.
Alongside Maatsen, Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper Nick Olij and Feyenoord defender Quinten Timber, who is sidelined with injury, were the other players dropped from the provisional squad. The final 26 represent Koeman’s selection to navigate a challenging Group D, and potentially beyond, in their quest for European glory.
Netherlands Euro 2024 Squad in Full:
Goalkeepers: Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord), Mark Flekken (Brentford), Bart Verbruggen (Brighton).
Defenders: Nathan Aké (Manchester City), Daley Blind (Girona), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen), Lutsharel Geertruida (Feyenoord), Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham), Stefan de Vrij (Inter Milan).
Midfielders: Teun Koopmeiners (Atalanta), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan), Jerdy Schouten (PSV), Joey Veerman (PSV), Georginio Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq).
Forwards: Steven Bergwijn (Ajax), Brian Brobbey (Ajax), Memphis Depay (Atlético Madrid), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Donyell Malen (Borussia Dortmund), Xavi Simons (Leipzig), Wout Weghorst (Hoffenheim).
This squad announcement sets the stage for an intriguing Euro 2024 campaign for the Netherlands, as they look to blend experience and talent to make a significant impact on the tournament.
