Dutch national manager Ronald Koeman spoke at his press conference about the upcoming friendlies against Slovakia and Italy.
- By James Rowe
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Netherlands travel to Slovakia on the 31st of May before facing Italy four days later.
Koeman told his press conference, ”Normally I would go on holiday when the season is finished but now I am managing the Dutch national team after the season has finished.
”It is important that the players want to join up with the national team and that they know that we are building for the future.
”Our goal is to reach the next major international tournament and we have two friendly matches before the Nations League begins. We must have a settled squad before then.
”I have brought faces into the squad because I wanted to see what they can do and I also believe that there is more clarity in the squad after the previous two international matches especially in the way we play.”
Koeman admitted he is disappointed that Bas Dost has decided to retire from international football, ”Every player is free to make their choice and it’s s shame that Bas Dost has taken a decision to retire from international football as I thought he is a player that could be useful.
”I spoke to him about the 4 international matches and my approach since I have become Dutch national team manager. He made his decision and he has thought long and hard about it. I believe that what has happened in previous squads plays a part in his decision in terms of what has gone before.
”We still have talent with players that can bring a lot to their squads if you look at Liverpool FC that play in a Champions League final. The players involved can bring their experiences over to the rest of the Dutch national team squad.
”Memphis Depay is also developing well at Lyon and it’s promising and gives confidence that we will be present at the next major international tournament ”
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