The Netherlands have unveiled their 30-man preliminary squad for Euro 2024, with head coach Ronald Koeman leading the charge. UEFA has recently increased squad sizes to 26 players for this year’s tournament, requiring at least three goalkeepers. Although not the favorites, the Oranje could be the dark horses, having secured second place in their qualifying group behind France.
Koeman inherited a talented squad from Louis van Gaal, who led them to the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals. Thus, the 61-year-old is confident of making a significant impact in Germany this summer. The team has progressed since their last-16 exit at the previous European Championship, blending youth and experience effectively.
In Group D, they will face tough competition from France and Austria. However, they should be well-prepared given the quality across their squad. Koeman, with a record of seven wins and five losses in 12 matches, aims to end the Netherlands‘ 36-year wait for a major trophy. They are starting their campaign against France, Austria, and Poland.
Who has Koeman overlooked?
Some big names are still missing from Koeman’s roster, although he has chosen to select four players more. For example, Joshua Zirkzee helped propel Bologna to an unexpected Champions League berth. But despite that, Koeman didn’t even consider the 22-year-old attacker.
Due in large part to Ajax’s dismal campaign, young defender Jorrel Hato is also not participating. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber has been out since August with a major knee injury. Therefore, the ex-Barcelona boss has decided not to risk taking him.
The 22-year-old missed a good chunk of time after injuring his knee on the first weekend of the Premier League season. His next target is Sunday’s match against Everton when he might make a triumphant return to the Arsenal bench.
It seems the Dutch were cautious in light of Timber’s injury. However, they still have until June 7 to announce their final…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-euro/netherlands-euro-2024-squad-who-will-play-and-who-wont/
Author : Martina Alcheva
Publish date : 2024-05-17 20:08:31
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