Dutch Euro Squad 2024: Koeman Announces Final 26 for European Championship
The Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has revealed his final 26-man Dutch Euro Squad 2024 for the upcoming European Championship. The announcement came with a surprise omission, as in-form Borussia Dortmund wing-back Ian Maatsen was left out despite a stellar season culminating in a Champions League final appearance.
Koeman’s selection includes key players returning from injury, notably Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong and Atlético Madrid striker Memphis Depay. Both are expected to be fit for the Netherlands’ opening Group D match against Poland on June 16th in Hamburg. Depay, with 44 international goals, is within striking distance of Robin van Persie’s all-time record of 50 for the Oranje. De Jong’s presence in midfield is considered crucial to the team’s success.
Koeman expressed confidence in De Jong’s recovery, stating he would join the squad shortly and that his progress was positive. While expecting De Jong to start against Poland, Koeman remained uncertain about his ability to play a full match. Despite injury concerns, particularly in midfield, Koeman expressed cautious optimism about the Dutch Euro squad 2024’s chances in Germany. He highlighted the team’s resilience and creative attacking prowess as reasons for confidence.
Maatsen’s exclusion was one of three changes from the provisional squad. Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper Nick Olij and injured Feyenoord defender Quinten Timber were also dropped. Maatsen’s absence leaves the Dutch Euro squad 2024 without a natural left-back. Koeman suggested veteran Daley Blind or Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven could fill the role.
The Dutch Euro squad 2024 boasts a blend of experience and youth, drawing players from top clubs across Europe. The squad includes established stars like Virgil van Dijk, Matthijs de Ligt, and Georginio Wijnaldum, alongside emerging talents like Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons.
Koeman acknowledged the team’s potential, emphasizing their difficult-to-beat nature and the creative quality in attack. The Netherlands, a three-time World Cup runner-up, last tasted major tournament success at the 1988 European Championship in West Germany, with Koeman playing a key role in defense. This summer, the Dutch Euro squad 2024 will aim to replicate that historic triumph.
Dutch Euro Squad 2024: Full 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).