Joey Veerman returned to the Netherlands national team under manager Xavi Hernández, prompting fierce debate among Dutch media analysts regarding his long-term role in Oranje.
Driessen Questions Veerman's Place After De Jong Returns
PSV Inside reported that media personality Valentijn Driessen sharply criticized former manager Ronald Koeman’s previous squad selections while pointing to the former PSV Eindhoven midfielder’s international integration. Driessen questioned whether Veerman would retain his place in the setup once Frenkie de Jong returns from absence.
Voetbalzone noted that Driessen asserted bluntly that Veerman would not play once the Barcelona midfielder comes back into the side. The debate centers on how much tactical room exists for Veerman alongside other central midfielders.
Performance Analysis Against Germany and Serbia
Veerman featured strongly in recent international fixtures, appearing as a substitute against Germany and starting against Serbia. Analysts offered starkly contrasting views of his contributions during those matches.
Willem van Hanegem offered a restrained assessment in remarks carried by VoetbalPrimeur. Van Hanegem urged observers not to exaggerate Veerman’s output, noting that winning possession and playing a long pass forward is standard competence rather than exceptional magic. He added that while Veerman is a good player, the exaggerated praise from commentators becomes tiresome.
In contrast, Hans Kraay junior defended Veerman’s inclusion in interviews with Voetbal International, reported by FeanOnline. Kraay argued that other midfielders like Ryan Gravenberch, Tijjani Reijnders, and Quinten Timber appeared listless against Germany and Serbia. Kraay praised Veerman’s progressive passing through the lines, stating that the midfielder successfully carved out time and space against high-level German opposition without crowding out Frenkie de Jong’s role.
Verbeek Credits Veerman's Set Piece and Passing Abilities
Gertjan Verbeek highlighted the specific tactical qualities that earned Veerman his recall after a two-year absence from the national team. Speaking in a video item for FCUpdate, and covered by PSVFans, Verbeek suggested that Veerman benefits significantly from working under Xavi Hernández.
Verbeek pointed out that the current coaching staff recognizes Veerman’s ability to execute precise depth passes and organize set pieces. According to Verbeek, set-piece takers carry an 80 percent responsibility for dead-ball success, and Veerman places deliveries deliberately into dangerous areas.
Upcoming Fixtures
The Netherlands national team continues its international campaign with upcoming qualifiers scheduled on the UEFA calendar, where coaching staff will test their midfield combinations ahead of major tournament fixtures.
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