Netherlands Finalized Euro 2024 Squad: Injuries Force Late Changes
Netherlands Finalized Euro 2024 Squad: The Netherlands, looking to end their 36-year trophy drought, have finalized their 26-man squad for Euro 2024 in Germany. Head coach Ronald Koeman made some tough decisions, including late injury withdrawals from key players Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners.
Key Decisions and Enforced Changes
Koeman's initial provisional squad announcement in May raised eyebrows with the omission of Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber due to a long-term injury. While his twin brother Quinten made the provisional cut, he was ultimately left out of the final squad.
The most significant changes came just before the tournament. Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong, a midfield lynchpin, was forced to withdraw due to an ankle injury. Midfielder Teun Koopmeiners also suffered an injury setback, requiring a replacement.
Rising Star Replaces de Jong
Chelsea's Ian Maatsen, fresh off a Champions League final appearance on loan at Borussia Dortmund, has been called up as de Jong's replacement. Koeman will be hoping the young talent can adapt quickly to the international stage. A replacement for Koopmeiners is yet to be announced.
Experienced Core Leads Young Talent
Despite the late changes, the Dutch squad boasts a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk provides leadership at the back, while veterans Daley Blind and Georginio Wijnaldum add stability. Youngsters like Jeremie Frimpong, who shone for Bayer Leverkusen last season, offer exciting attacking options.
Ages and caps correct at the start of Euro 2024 on June 14
| Position | Player | Club | Age | Caps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GK | Justin Bijlow | Feyenoord (NED) | 26 | 8 |
| GK | Mark Flekken | Brentford (ENG) | 30 | 7 |
| GK | Bart Verbruggen | Brighton (ENG) | 21 | 7 |
| DEF | Nathan Ake | Manchester City (ENG) | 29 | 45 |
| DEF | Daley Blind | Girona (SPA) | 34 | 107 |
| DEF | Virgil van Dijk | Liverpool (ENG) | 32 | 68 |
| DEF | Denzel Dumfries | Inter Milan (ITA) | 28 | 53 |
| DEF | Jeremie Frimpong | Bayer Leverkusen (GER) | 23 | 4 |
| DEF | Lutsharel Geertruida | Feyenoord (NED) | 23 | 9 |
| DEF | Matthijs de Ligt | Bayern Munich (NED) | 24 | 45 |
| DEF | Micky van de Ven | Tottenham (ENG) | 23 | 4 |
| DEF | Stefan de Vrij | Inter Milan (ITA) | 32 | 64 |
| DEF | Ian Maatsen | Chelsea (ENG) | 22 | 0 |
| MID | Steven Bergwijn | Ajax (NED) | 26 | 33 |
| MID | Ryan Gravenberch | Liverpool (ENG) | 22 | 12 |
| MID | Tijjani Reijnders | AC Milan (ITA) | 25 | 9 |
| MID | Jerdy Schouten | PSV (NED) | 27 | 5 |
| MID | Xavi Simons | RB Leipzig (GER) | 21 | 14 |
| MID | Joey Veerman | Feyenoord (NED) | 25 | 10 |
| MID | Georginio Wijnaldum | Al Ettifaq (KSA) | 33 | 93 |
| FWD | Brian Brobbey | Ajax (NED) | 22 | 2 |
| FWD | Memphis Depay | Atletico Madrid (SPA) | 30 | 92 |
| FWD | Cody Gakpo | Liverpool (ENG) | 25 | 24 |
| FWD | Donyell Malen | Borussia Dortmund (GER) | 25 | 32 |
| FWD | Wout Weghorst | Hoffenheim (GER) | 31 | 33 |
Tough Group Awaits
The Netherlands face a stern test in Group D. They'll need to navigate a group containing heavyweights France, the current World Cup runners-up, alongside Poland and Austria. France, ranked second in the world, will be the group favorites, while Netherlands sit at seventh.
Netherlands Euro 2024 Schedule
- June 16: Group Stage MD1 vs. Poland (Volksparkstadion, 9:00 AM ET)
- June 21: Group Stage MD2 vs. France (Red Bull Arena, 3:00 PM ET)
- June 25: Group Stage MD3 vs. Austria (Olympiastadion, 12:00 PM ET)
Limited Roster Changes Allowed
UEFA regulations allow for late injury replacements up until the opening match. Goalkeepers are the only exception, with substitutions permitted before subsequent matches during the tournament.
Can the Netherlands Overcome Challenges?
With key players missing and a tough group, the Dutch face a significant challenge on their quest for European glory. Koeman's ability to manage his squad effectively and integrate replacements seamlessly will be crucial to their success.
Henry
just love writing about football and playing video games, love my quiet time also. contact me @ [email protected]
