Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has announced his provisional squad for the 2024 European Championship, with no players of Nigerian descent cutting. Notably, Bayern Munich academy product Joshua Zirkzee, who was scouted by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr, was omitted. Additionally, Kingsley Ehizibue, a 2020 Super Eagles invitee, and Everton’s Lagos born winger Arnaut Danjuma were also left out of the 30 man provisional squad.
Ehizibue and Danjuma, both of whom have played for the Netherlands at the U21 level, faced tough competition to break into the senior squad. Zirkzee’s exclusion is particularly surprising given his impressive performance this season, recording 19 goal involvements in 37 appearances for Bologna in Serie A. Despite being named in the Netherlands’s preliminary squad for the March internationals, Zirkzee missed the final selection due to a hamstring injury.
The Netherlands will face Poland, France, and Austria in Group D of the 2024 European Championship.
Editorial
The exclusion of Nigerian descent players from the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 squad highlights the intense competition and the high standards required to make it into a top international team. Players like Joshua Zirkzee, who have demonstrated exceptional performance at the club level, must now navigate the challenges of international selection. As followers of football, we recognize that these decisions are influenced by numerous factors, including recent form, injuries, and tactical fit.
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Joshua Zirkzee’s omission, despite his strong season with Bologna, underscores the unpredictability of football selections. His ability to contribute significantly in Serie A suggests a bright future, and this setback should serve as a motivator for him to continue improving. The same can be said for Kingsley Ehizibue and Arnaut Danjuma, whose exclusion should not detract from their potential and capabilities.
For the Super Eagles and Nigerian football fans, the situation presents a unique opportunity. Players who are eligible to switch allegiances, like Ehizibue, might consider representing Nigeria at the international level. This could strengthen the Super Eagles squad and provide these players with the chance to play on the international stage.
We believe that the journeys of these players will be closely watched by clubs and national teams alike. Their experiences and growth in competitive leagues are valuable assets, and their potential to make impactful contributions remains high. The road to international recognition is challenging, but perseverance and consistent performance can eventually lead to success.
Did You Know?
- The Netherlands won their first and only European Championship in 1988, with a squad that included legends like Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit.
- Joshua Zirkzee was born in the Netherlands to Nigerian parents and began his professional career at Feyenoord before moving to Bayern Munich.
- Kingsley Ehizibue was born in Germany to Nigerian parents and raised in the Netherlands, making him eligible to represent all three countries.
- Arnaut Danjuma, born in Lagos, Nigeria, has played for top European clubs including Club Brugge and Villarreal before joining Everton.
- The 2024 European Championship will feature 24 teams and will be held across 10 cities in Germany from June 14 to July 14, 2024.
