Netherlands national team manager Ronald Koeman has selected veteran midfielder Marten de Roon for the upcoming World Cup squad following a severe knee injury to Jerdy Schouten at the end of the club season.
The inclusion of the 35-year-old Atalanta midfielder sparked a tactical debate among Dutch football pundits regarding the defensive balance of the national team's midfield unit during a television broadcast on Ziggo Sport on Monday evening.
Pundits Question Midfield Balance
Football analyst Ruud Gullit questioned how the team would handle defensive transitions and suggested that the veteran player could provide necessary stability to protect the backline.
"I am curious if we are going to see De Roon a lot," said Gullit.
The former international player noted that the national team frequently concedes goals during counter-attacks and requires a defensive anchor.
"We concede a lot of goals in transition. And there you need someone to guard the castle," said Gullit.
Gullit also expressed reservations about utilizing Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch in a deeper defensive role alongside the returning Frenkie de Jong.
"I've seen Gravenberch play at six at Liverpool and then you take away the best of him. That is not his position," said Gullit.
The tactical evaluation received support from other television pundits who agreed that the former Ajax player functions better in an advanced role.
"He just plays in midfield. He has to attack and also support.
But to really be a six, he is not," said Theo Janssen, football pundit.
Analysts further argued that deploying Gravenberch out of his natural position diminishes his effectiveness on the pitch.
"He can play it, but he is an eight. Then he is not in his strength, that's a shame," said Khalid Boulahrouz, former defender.
Despite offering tactical observations, Gullit emphasized that he does not intend to interfere with the managerial decisions of the head coach.
"I'm not going to do that anymore. I don't like that at all.
I'm not going to sit in his chair. It's also a bit of a kind of loyalty to Ronald," said Gullit.
Media personality Valentijn Driessen previously commented on Vandaag Inside that the experienced midfielder brings positive locker room dynamics and continuous energy to the squad.
"He is a very good player for the group and always gives energy. He puts others in their place and at Atalanta he has done very well.
I have seen him a few times and I can imagine that a trainer loves these types of players: who always go and always keep closing gaps, so they are ideal coach's players.
They are only not players because of whom you suddenly win against France in the semi-final," said Driessen.
Pundit Johan Derksen endorsed the managerial decision, pointing to the player's consistent performances in the Italian top flight.
"That De Roon always plays at the highest level in Italy. He shines as captain there.
It's not a boy who makes problems. If there is an injury, then you can deploy him risk-free," said Derksen.
Following his official inclusion in the national squad, the Atalanta captain expressed his readiness to contribute to the tournament run through an official statement.
"I have always said that I would be ready if the national coach needed me.
I have always been there for the Netherlands and that will always remain so.
I want to thank Mr. Koeman for his trust and for the chance to play my last World Cup.
I will give everything, both inside and outside the field.
I believe that this selection has all the qualities to play a great World Cup and fulfill a leading role," said De Roon.
