Netherlands defeated Iceland 4:0 in their last friendly before Euro 2024. The bad news is that the Oranje’s playmaker Frenkie de Jong will not be participating in Euro 2024, as he returns to Barcelona to recover from a physical condition that poses a significant risk if aggravated. De Jong, who was eager to help the Netherlands in the tournament, is saddened by the decision but understands that leaving the team is the only way to ensure his long-term health.
Frenkie de Jong won’t participate at EURO 2024. 😔
We are with you, Frenkie. 🧡#NothingLikeOranje pic.twitter.com/JlR3V5ETyZ
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) June 10, 2024
Dutch national team coach Ronald Koeman expressed his disappointment over de Jong’s injury situation. “He was not gonna be ready in three weeks, unfortunately” Koeman said. “Frenkie has a history with this injury, so we have to think about his health. The club over there decided to take risks and this is the price we have to pay for it.” UEFA will pay Barcelona €50,000 for the five days de Jong spent with the Dutch national team ahead of Euro 2024, at a rate of €10,000 per day.
The Netherlands faces further challenges as another key player, Teun Koopmeiners, also suffered a muscle injury. Tests will determine if he too will have to leave the national team. Amidst these setbacks, Ian Maatsen has good chances of being called up by Koeman as a replacement for de Jong.