Ian Maatsen, the Chelsea full-back who spent the last season on loan to Borussia Dortmund, received a last-minute call up for Euro 2024 while holidaying on a yacht off the coast of the Greek-island of Mykonos. This unexpected call led him to quickly join the Dutch national team for training and preparation for his first international cap.
Despite the unexpected nature of the call-up, Maatsen’s family played a crucial role in ensuring he was ready to join the national team. His father, Edward Maatsen, drove from their home in Vlaardingen to Dortmund to bring his football boots and other personal items. This dedication helped Ian shake off the holiday cobwebs and focus on the opportunity to represent his country on a major stage.
Maatsen’s inclusion in the squad came after injury ruled out key players like Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners. His initial omission from the squad raised eyebrows, considering his contribution to Dortmund’s journey to the Champions League final. However, Maatsen quickly proved his worth and prepared to make an impact in the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament.
As the Maatsen family embarked on the journey to Wolfsburg to support Ian, they reflected on the pride and joy of seeing their son achieve his dream of representing his country at a major international event. The European Championship served as the ultimate validation of Ian’s hard work and dedication to his craft, with his family by his side every step of the way.
Now, with the Netherlands gearing up for their Euro 2024 campaign, Maatsen is set to make his mark on the international stage. The team’s opening match against Poland in Hamburg will provide him with the opportunity to showcase his skills and contribute to their quest for success in the tournament. As Maatsen prepares for this monumental moment in his career, he carries with him the support and pride of his family, who have been instrumental in his journey from holidaying on a yacht to a Euro 2024 call up.