Netherlands Officially Announce A New Addition To Their Euro 2024 Squad Following The Second Player’s Withdrawal.
Netherlands Officially Announce A New Addition To Their Euro 2024 Squad Following The Second Player’s Withdrawal.
Netherlands has confirmed the addition of one player to their Euro 2024 squad following the withdrawal of a second player within the past 24 hours.
In contrast to many of their competitors, Ronald Koeman chose to announce his 26-player squad well before the June 7 deadline. On the field, this decision seemed to result in a cohesive group, as evidenced by convincing 4-0 victories over Canada and Iceland.
However, Oranje experienced two significant setbacks due to injuries. The first occurred on Monday evening when it was revealed that key Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong would not be joining the squad due to an ankle injury that hadn’t healed. Consequently, reports surfaced suggesting that Ian Maatsen, initially left out of the provisional squad, would be called up as his replacement.
One player in, two players out for Netherlands
The decision to add another player to the squad may have been made on Tuesday regardless of further withdrawals, but it became inevitable once it was confirmed that a second player would be unavailable for the tournament.
Netherlands announced on Tuesday morning that Teun Koopmeiners, another influential midfielder, had been forced to withdraw. The Atalanta BC star sustained a groin injury during the warm-up before Monday’s game against Iceland, and it has been determined that he will not be able to recover in time to participate significantly in the competition.
Teun Koopmeiners misses EURO 2024. 😔
The midfielder won't be able to participate after he injured himself during the warm-up of the match against Iceland yesterday.
We're thinking of you, Teun. 🧡#NothingLikeOranje pic.twitter.com/AhhvDe1Bgf— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) June 11, 2024
Koeman has opted to include Maatsen in the squad, despite the Chelsea player not having earned a senior cap for his national team.
Why was Maatsen chosen?
With more players available, Koeman might have made a different decision, but Maatsen’s versatility is a significant advantage. Alternatives like Quinten Timber and Marten de Roon were considered, but injuries ruled them out of contention.
However, Koeman still has five central midfielders at his disposal, with Nathan Ake or Daley Blind capable of providing cover if needed. Maatsen offers versatility at left-back, left wing-back, and in a creative midfield role. He also remains fit, having played for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final as recently as June 1.
