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.
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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.
