In a significant development for the Netherlands national team, midfielder Frenkie de Jong has been named in the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Hungary and Bosnia-Herzegovina in November. The Barcelona star makes his return to international duty after a lengthy 14-month absence due to a persistent ankle injury that also forced him to miss Euro 2024.
De Jong’s comeback provides a timely boost for the Dutch, who are in a tight race for a spot in the Nations League quarter-finals. With opponents like Hungary and Bosnia-Herzegovina on the horizon, the 26-year-old’s presence in midfield could prove vital in securing the necessary results.
Depay’s Absence Raises Questions
While De Jong’s return is cause for celebration, the Netherlands will have to make do without star forward Memphis Depay. The Corinthians striker, who has found the net twice in the last two months for his new Brazilian club, was a notable omission from coach Ronald Koeman’s selection.
Depay’s absence raises questions about the Dutch attack, especially considering his impressive record of 43 goals in 80 appearances for the national team. The 30-year-old’s last appearance for the Netherlands came at Euro 2024, and his experience and goal-scoring prowess will undoubtedly be missed.
Young Talents Get the Nod
In a bid to inject fresh talent into the squad, Koeman has called up Ajax right-back Devyne Rensch and PSV Eindhoven winger Noa Lang. Rensch, who has only one cap to his name, earned his maiden call-up under the current coach, while Lang’s impressive form for PSV has been rewarded with a spot in the team after more than a year on the sidelines.
According to a close source within the Dutch camp, Koeman is keen to strike a balance between experienced players and promising youngsters as he looks to build a competitive squad for the future.
– Close source within the Dutch camp
Netherlands Face Uphill Battle
Currently sitting second in Group A3, five points adrift of leaders Germany and ahead of Hungary only on goal difference, the Netherlands face an uphill battle to secure a quarter-final berth. With two crucial matches remaining, Koeman’s men will need to be at their best to avoid the ignominy of relegation to a lower tier.
- Netherlands are second in Group A3, five points behind leaders Germany
- They are ahead of Hungary in third place only on goal difference
- A top-two finish is required to reach the Nations League quarter-finals
De Jong’s Timely Comeback
Frenkie de Jong’s return to the fold couldn’t have come at a better time for the Netherlands. The Barcelona midfielder’s ability to control the tempo of the game, coupled with his excellent distribution skills, will be crucial in unlocking opposition defenses and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
De Jong’s presence in midfield will provide a calming influence and allow the Dutch to dictate play, something they have sorely missed in his absence.
– Close source within the Dutch camp
However, question marks remain over De Jong’s match fitness, given his lengthy spell on the sidelines. Koeman will need to carefully manage the midfielder’s minutes to ensure he doesn’t suffer any setbacks and can make a meaningful contribution to the team’s cause.
The Road Ahead
As the Netherlands prepare to face Hungary in Amsterdam on November 16 before traveling to Bosnia-Herzegovina three days later, the pressure is well and truly on Koeman’s side to deliver. With De Jong back in the fold and a mix of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters at his disposal, the Dutch coach will be hoping his team can rise to the occasion and secure their place in the next round of the Nations League.
The absence of Memphis Depay, however, looms large over the Netherlands’ prospects. Without their talismanic forward leading the line, the onus will be on the likes of Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo and Ajax’s Brian Brobbey to step up and fill the void.
Depay’s absence is a big blow, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to stake their claim and show what they can do on the international stage.
– Close source within the Dutch camp
As the Netherlands embark on this crucial juncture in their Nations League campaign, all eyes will be on how they cope without Depay and whether De Jong’s return can inspire them to the results they need. The stage is set for a fascinating battle, and the Dutch will be hoping they have the quality and resilience to come out on top.
