Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has finalized his 26-man squad for the European Championship, revealing a selection that has sparked both excitement and debate. Borussia Dortmund’s in-form wing-back Ian Maatsen was a notable exclusion, despite his impressive performances that contributed to Dortmund’s journey to the Champions League final. However, the squad sees the inclusion of key players Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona and Atlético Madrid striker Memphis Depay, both battling back from injuries but deemed crucial for the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 campaign.
The inclusion of De Jong and Depay underscores their importance to the Dutch national team. Depay’s prolific goal-scoring record for Oranje, with 44 goals, places him within striking distance of Robin van Persie’s all-time record of 50, adding significant firepower to the squad. De Jong’s dynamic midfield presence and playmaking abilities are considered vital for the team’s overall structure and success in the tournament. Koeman expressed optimism regarding De Jong’s fitness, stating he would join the squad on Saturday, with expectations that he will be ready to start in their opening Group D match against Poland on June 16 in Hamburg. While it remains uncertain if De Jong can complete the full match, his anticipated availability is a major boost for the team.
Despite some injury concerns, particularly in midfield, Koeman conveyed a cautiously optimistic outlook on the Netherlands’ chances at the tournament in Germany. “We have a team that is hard to beat,” Koeman stated, highlighting the team’s strengths. “We have a lot of creative quality in the forwards, so I think we have a strong team.” This confidence is tempered by the reality of injuries, but Koeman believes the overall quality and resilience of the selected Dutch Euro Squad 2024 provides a solid foundation for a competitive tournament.
Maatsen’s omission was a talking point, especially considering his strong performances for Dortmund while on loan from Chelsea. Despite never having played for the national team, his form had led to speculation about his potential inclusion in the Dutch Euro squad 2024. Ultimately, Koeman opted against including a natural left-back in the final selection. Instead, he suggested that veteran Daley Blind from Girona or Micky van de Ven of Tottenham could fill that role if needed, showcasing versatility within his defensive options. Alongside Maatsen, Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper Nick Olij and Feyenoord defender Quinten Timber, sidelined due to injury, were the other players dropped from the provisional squad.
The Netherlands has a rich history in international football, being three-time World Cup runners-up. Their sole major tournament victory came at the 1988 European Championship in West Germany, a triumph in which Koeman himself played a crucial role as a defender. This historical context adds weight to the current team’s aspirations as they aim to replicate past success and make a significant impact in the Euro 2024 Dutch squad.
Netherlands – Euro 2024 Squad List:
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 finalized Dutch Euro squad 2024 list represents Koeman’s strategic choices as the Netherlands prepares for the challenges of Euro 2024. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents, despite some notable omissions and injury concerns, sets the stage for an intriguing tournament campaign for the Oranje.
