Ronald Koeman and Virgil van Dijk addressed the media ahead of the Netherlands’ EURO 2024 opening match against Poland at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion on Sunday. The Dutch squad, having observed the tournament kick-off with Germany’s resounding victory over Scotland, now eagerly anticipate their own debut.
What did Ronald Koeman say?
Reflecting on the start of the tournament, Koeman remarked that, “I was glad it had already started yesterday. When you’ve been together for so long, at some point it may be for real.”
Koeman also provided an update on Brian Brobbey’s availability, saying that “The injury is not too bad. It’s a slight strain. Tomorrow he will not be available. But we expect him to be there second match (against France).”
In midfield, the Oranje face several absences. Though Koeman expressed confidence in his options for the starting lineup- likely to include Jerdy Schouten, Joey Veerman, and Tijjani Reijnders. “If I line them up, I am confident. You gain experience by playing tournaments and internationals. When I think they are ready, I draft them.”
Xavi Simons also appears set for a prominent role within the Dutch national team as they prepare for their EUROs run in Germany. “He is one of the biggest talents we have in the Netherlands,” Koeman noted. “A development of young players always goes with ups and downs. We are confident that he will play a good tournament.”
Assessing the tournament favourites in Le Bleus, Koeman identified France as ‘slightly ahead’ in the race for the European title. “There are very strong countries, the Netherlands is one of them. But in my opinion, there is no big favourite. France maybe a bit more than the rest, they already won a big tournament (World Cup 2018). But it will be an open battle between the big countries, including the Netherlands.”
What did Virgil van Dijk say?
Virgil van Dijk echoed the sentiment given by his manager when stating: “Yesterday we watched the opening match with everyone. Then it does itch to start ourselves.”
Van Dijk also voiced frustration regarding the pitch conditions at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion. “Whether the pitch is very bad, we don’t know at the moment,” he said. “We assume that it is about the same as in March, during our practice match in Frankfurt against Germany. That the pitch will become loose very quickly. That’s a bummer, but both teams have to deal with it.”
As the Netherlands prepare for their Euro 2024 campaign, the focus remains on overcoming Poland in what promises to be a challenging encounter. With Koeman’s strategic guidance and Van Dijk’s defensive prowess, the Dutch aim to make a resounding start in the tournament.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Netherlands kick off their Euro 2024 journey at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion.
