Belgians and Dutch gamble on returning players to give them an edge at Euro 2024

May 30 – Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman selected Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay despite fitness concerns for his Euro 2024 squad. Belgian manager Domenico Tedesco sprung a surprise by including veteran Axel Witsel in his 25-man squad.

“Frenkie will report for the team on Saturday, but things are going well,” said Koeman. “The first group match (against Poland in Hamburg on June 16) is feasible (for him to play). We have had a troubled cycle with many injuries. You make choices and sometimes they are difficult.”

Borussia Dortmund’s Ian Maatsen was omitted from the squad. He will play in the Champions League final on Saturday against Real Madrid in London.

“The reason is that there are several guys in his position and they are given preference. (Nathan) Ake, (Micky) Van de Ven and (Daley) Blind. It gives me the opportunity to bring an extra attacker,” said Koeman.

Koeman featured for the Netherlands himself in 1988, the last time the Dutch won the European Championship. In Germany, the Netherlands take on Poland, France and Austria in Group D.

Earlier this week, neighbours Belgium named a 25-man list that included Atletico Madrid’s Witsel but omitted Michy Batshuayi and Thibaut Courtois. On the back of his fine club form and with tons of experience, Tedesco sees Witsel as an asset. He can play both in defence and midfield.

Tedesco said: “I have had Axel in my mind for a long time, even during the qualification. It’s about quality, Witsel offers a lot of quality. He is a key player at Atlético Madrid. I met him, wanted to see him, look into his eyes. We need him, he has experience and can help the young players. Experience in that position is important. We are playing a European Championship, that is no small thing.”

In Madrid, Tedesco did not go and see Courtois. The pair fell out over the captain’s armband.

Netherlands

Goalkeepers: Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord), Mark Fleken (Brentford, England), Bart Verbruggen (Brighton & Hove…

Source link : https://www.insideworldfootball.com/2024/05/30/belgians-dutch-gamble-returning-players-give-edge-euro-2024/

Author : Paul Nicholson

Publish date : 2024-05-30 12:18:53

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