Ronald Koeman included AFC Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert in his Netherlands squad for September’s international break. This saw the attacking midfielder to return to the national team for the first time in over six years.
Last month, Kluivert said it took him two to three years to let go of the disappointment of starting to miss out.
The Bournemouth player was an unused substitute in Oranje’s last two matches. Koeman has again called him up for the two matches against Hungary and Germany in the UEFA Nations League this month.
Viaplay had a chat with the 25-year-old, where he expressed his delight over keeping his place in the national team squad. His comments are relayed by Voetbal Primeur.
“That’s of course the best thing there is, playing for your country. That’s why I work super hard in my career. I just want a great career and to get the best out of it,” he said.
“How great is it if you can represent your country? There are only a few players who are allowed to do that. To be able to be there, that is absurd. And the goal is of course the World Cup, that is the end goal.”
The Netherlands international joined the Cherries from AS Roma in June 2023. He finished his debut season with nine goals and two assists from 36 matches in all competitions. The attacker has an assist from six league games this season.
Kluivert’s form has helped him return to the Netherlands squad. His aim is to be represent them at the 2026 World Cup. The report says it’ll be a ‘logistical puzzle’ for him because he’s getting married in 2026.
“Very difficult. I have a big goal, and that’s the World Cup. Only I also want to get married in the year of the World Cup. Then I have time to plan everything,” Kluivert explained.
In this way, Voetbal Primeur say the player has sent a ‘clear message’ to Koeman.
