Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee and left-back Ian Maatsen received unexpected calls to join the Dutch Euro 2024 squad while they were on holiday. Zirkzee, who was enjoying his time at Walt Disney World in Florida, had to pack his bags quickly to fly to Germany and link up with the team. Similarly, Maatsen, who was on vacation in Mykonos, was asked by Ronald Koeman to replace the injured Frenkie de Jong. Both players had to cut short their leisure time to answer their country’s call.
Zirkzee, who is reportedly on Manchester United’s radar for the upcoming summer transfer window, has now been given a chance to showcase his skills in the Euros after initially being left out of the squad. Despite missing the last two matches in Bologna’s season due to a hamstring injury, the 23-year-old will be looking to make an impact on the tournament. Maatsen, on the other hand, was instrumental in Borussia Dortmund’s journey to the Champions League final and will provide additional options for Koeman on the left flank.
The Dutch team has been dealing with a growing injury list, with key players like De Jong and Teun Koopmeiners ruled out of the competition. Brian Brobbey’s hamstring injury has also been a cause for concern, although the MRI results came back positive. Zirkzee’s arrival provides cover for Brobbey and adds depth to the squad. Koeman, who initially left out Zirkzee due to fitness concerns, has now included him in the team, highlighting the striker’s opportunity to prove himself on the international stage.
The Netherlands are set to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Poland in Hamburg. With unexpected call-ups and injuries shaking up the squad, Koeman will be looking to Zirkzee and Maatsen to step up and contribute to the team’s success in the tournament. The players’ willingness to leave behind their holiday plans and join the national team at short notice demonstrates their commitment to representing their country at the highest level. In a tournament full of surprises, Zirkzee and Maatsen’s inclusion adds another layer of intrigue to the Dutch team’s prospects in Euro 2024.