The Dutch national team has announced a list of 30 players called up to prepare for Euro 2024, featuring notable names alongside surprises. Let's join Thể thao 247 in selecting the strongest lineup for Euro 2024 of the Dutch national team.
The orange storms in recent major tournaments have failed to maintain the image of a top-tier team, especially after the painful defeat to the Spanish national team in the 2010 World Cup final.
Since that golden generation, the Dutch national team has been searching for its identity and former glory, yet it has been unable to surpass the achievements of over a decade ago.
Despite the presence of talented individuals and emerging stars with passion and dedication, the bitter taste of unfulfilled expectations remains for Dutch football fans throughout this challenging and tumultuous journey.
However, Euro 2024 could be a rare bright spot, marking the end of the Dutch national team's "title drought," as coach Ronald Koeman possesses what is considered the most talented and complete squad since the days of Edwin van der Sar, Arjen Robben, or Wesley Sneijder.
Join us as we highlight the strongest lineup of the Dutch national team for the upcoming tournament.
Goalkeeper: Bart VerbruggenBart Verbruggen currently plays for Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League. Standing at 1.93 meters tall, the 21-year-old goalkeeper has a significant advantage in dealing with crosses. On average, he stops 10.8% of opponent crosses per game, much higher than top goalkeepers, such as David De Gea, who stops only 3.3%.
Defenders: Jeremie Frimpong, De Ligt, Van Dijk, Nathan AkeThe youthful energy and enthusiasm of Frimpong and Nathan Ake are qualities that every coach desires. Their ability to contribute offensively by overlapping runs and excellent defensive skills have been evident throughout the past season at their respective clubs, Bayer Leverkusen and Manchester City.
The center-back positions are secured by two top-class defenders: Van Dijk and De Ligt. There is no debate about their quality and class, as they are considered two of the best defenders in European football today, forming an impenetrable wall for any opponent.
[caption id="attachment_5348" align="alignnone" width="600"] Two world-class center-backs that the Netherlands national team possesses. Image: Sports.[/caption]
Midfielders: De Jong, Wijnaldum, Reijnders
The midfield line-up may raise some concerns for the Oranje due to the absence of Frenkie De Jong, their key pillar, whose injury is yet to fully recover, and his return date remains uncertain, which only adds to the growing worry.
Moreover, while Reijnders brings youthfulness and Wijnaldum adds experience, their class is not rated too high. Nevertheless, this trio remains the best options Ronald Koeman has at his disposal for Euro.
Forwards: Cody Gakpo, Xavi Simons, Memphis Depay
A forward line brimming with youth, passion, and proven performances in the 2023/24 season. Cody Gakpo has shown promise whenever given the chance at Liverpool under Klopp. Simons has been a key figure in RB Leipzig's success in the Bundesliga and Champions League. As for Depay, he's perhaps the least regarded among the attacking trio for the Dutch team.
However, in the past, Depay has always found a way to shine at crucial moments, scoring decisive goals to secure victories for his team. This secret weapon could potentially propel the Netherlands forward in the upcoming tournament.
Preliminary squad of 30 players for the Netherlands national team at Euro 2024Goalkeepers - Bijlow, Flekken, Olij, Verbruggen.Defenders - Ake, Blind, Van Dijk, Dumfries, Frimpong, Geertruida, De Ligt, Maatsen, Van de Ven, De Vrij.Midfielders - Gravenberch, De Jong, Koopmeiners, Reijnders, De Roon, Schouten, Simons, Timber, Veerman, Wijnaldum.Forwards - Bergwijn, Brobbey, Depay, Gakpo, Malen, Weghorst.
Schedule of the Netherlands national team in the group stage of Euro 2024:
June 16: Poland vs Netherlands.
June 22: Netherlands vs France.
June 25: Netherlands vs Austria.
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