Joshua Zirkzee Joins Netherlands Squad For Euro 2024 Amid Top Clubs' Interest
Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly attracting interest from Milan, Juventus, and Manchester United. The 23-year-old striker has been called up for the Netherlands squad at Euro 2024 following injuries to key players. Oranje manager Ronald Koeman has lost Frenkie de Jong, Teun Koopmeiners, and Marten de Roon in the lead-up to the tournament in Germany.
Koeman criticised his former club Barcelona for their handling of De Jong's injury. Koopmeiners' absence was confirmed this week, adding to the Netherlands' challenges. Ajax forward Brian Brobbey is also struggling with fitness issues, prompting the Dutch team to act swiftly in securing reinforcements.
Zirkzee's inclusion was confirmed on Wednesday as he joined the Netherlands' international camp ahead of their tournament opener against Poland on Sunday. The striker has yet to earn a senior cap for the Netherlands but has scored seven goals in 19 appearances for the Under-21 side.
During the 2023-24 campaign, Zirkzee netted 12 times in 37 appearances for Bologna, helping the Serie A team qualify for next season's Champions League. This performance has reportedly drawn interest from Erik ten Hag's Manchester United, Juventus—who appointed Thiago Motta as their new head coach on Wednesday—and Milan.
Ian Maatsen, who reached the Champions League final with Borussia Dortmund this year, has also been brought in to fill the void left by De Jong and Koopmeiners. The Netherlands will face Austria and France in Group D at Euro 2024. Germany will open the tournament against Scotland on Friday.
Koeman's squad adjustments come at a crucial time as they prepare for a challenging group stage. The inclusion of Zirkzee and Maatsen aims to bolster the team's chances amid significant injuries.
The Netherlands' first match against Poland will be a critical test for the newly adjusted squad. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the team's performance on the European stage.
See you soon, Joshua! Joshua Zirkzee joins Oranje's #EURO2024 squad! #NothingLikeOranje #CreateHistory pic.twitter.com/zdXwkihWS7
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) June 12, 2024
Sign in with Google