Though Friday’s emphatic win over title-holders Spain silenced many of the doubts surrounding the Dutch squad, there are questions that still remain regarding the area of the midfield.
- By Adrian Bucher
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The news of Kevin Strootman’s injury, suffered back in March, came as a huge blow to the Netherlands’ World Cup preparations. The Roma midfielder had become an integral part of Louis van Gaal’s squad, having captained the national side on several occasions – reflecting the immense faith placed on the shoulders of the 24 year-old. Many have seen van Gaal’s use of the 5-3-2 formation as a response to losing one of his midfield generals.
Though several analysts and journalists had written off the Oranje’s chances of progressing out of the group, the Dutch replied in spectacular fashion, by dismantling Spain 5-1 in their opening match. With several players producing vintage performances, such as Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie and Ron Vlaar, there remain some doubts over the composition of the midfield.
The three-man-midfield in Salvador consisted of Wesley Sneijder, Nigel de Jong and Jonathan de Guzman. Whilst the former two players produced solid performances (with Sneijder providing an assist), de Guzman was less convincing than his teammates, whose most notable contribution was being awarded the first yellow card of the night.
While the Swansea player’s performance was not terrible, it certainly was not at the same level of the other players on that memorable night. The introduction of Georginio Wijnaldum in place of de Guzman gave more dynamism to the midfield, with the PSV man even forcing a save out of Casillas late on in the match.
So what are van Gaal’s options here? Who should accompany to de Jong and Sneijder to make up the Netherland’s midfield?
Including the pre-tournament friendlies, van Gaal has, in addition to de Guzman and Wijnaldum, used Jordy Clasie and Leroy Fer. The performances of the four men vary have varied, however it is undoubtedly Wijmaldum and Clasie that have impressed (Clasie was able to provide an assist during the Oranje’s victory over Ghana at the end of last month).
If van Gaal aims to go far in this tournament, it is imperative to get the midfield trio correct. de Guzman’s lacklustre performance was largely overshadowed by the performances of his teammates. However, as the tournament wears on, it would not be surprising to see some players tire, and in that case, van Gaal needs a midfield he can rely on. It seems clear, judging by the last match at least, that Georginio Wijnaldum is the best option to go with.
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I think De guzman did very well against spain.he faced the massive spanish pressure in midfield in an inteligent way and was tough when needed.i really like wijnaldum and classie,but jdg is more experienced,and is doing very well in premier league while classie and wijnaldum still have to grow as players and prove themselves in a stronger league.thats why de guzman should be the starter in dutch midfield.
You’ve got to be joking. De Guzman was the weakest link in the side. His most significant contribution in the match was to allow Xavi to breeze past him and find a hole in the centre of defence which Xavi used to assist De Costa in getting the penalty. It was very poor defending. He’s completely out of his depth at this level. Swansea’s defensive record is not that good. He is going to get carved up by Muller and Messi if he faces them. Thats why Classie has to partner De Jong. Jordy can be a pain in the arse for attacking mids and has the ability to take them out of the game. His pit-bull-like defence will be needed more than his sometimes sublime passing the further the team progress. And when he runs out of puff in the heat of Brazil its the perfect time to bring on Wijnaldum for the last 20. And De Jong’s experience should help them both. I can’t understand how DeGuzman gets a look in.
wijnuldum is the best option then its clasie
I agree De Guzman is not mentally tough enough to be a starter. Winaljdum is the better option. De Guzman plays well for Swanswea and makes some good plays but gives the ball away too easily. He looks not confident.