Dutch football manager Koeman opens up on the situation surrounding Liverpool star Ryan Gravenberch
Netherlands football team manager Ronald Koeman has declared that the banishment of Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch from the national team is “over,” but emphasized that the midfielder must fully honour any future call-ups.
The 21-year-old withdrew himself from the Netherlands U21 squad in September to focus on settling down in Merseyside following his transfer from Bayern Munich to Liverpool, sparking backlash from the Dutch FA (KNVB). Given that it was one of their best young talents looking to get his career back on track, the reaction was rather surprising.
The midfielder was originally left out of Koeman’s squads for October and November as punishment. This continued omission from the latest provisional squad for Euro 2024 qualifiers hinted that his exile would continue.
However, Koeman told Ziggo Sport Voetbal(h/t Liverpoolecho), that after discussions with Gravenberch, the banishment is over. But he reiterated that the player cannot pick and choose when to represent his country.
“No, that’s over. Whether his withdrawal was understandable? Maybe, but I actually think that he was able to get the matches at the Dutch juniors that he did not play before.
Of course, there is something to be said for him being like that, but I think that we at the KNVB should never be happy if someone does not opt-out for a good reason.
I was also a football player, but you have to draw a line. We told Ryan: ‘We understand it a bit, but we don’t think it’s okay. If you If you are called, you must come.”
Koeman explained he understands Gravenberch’s reasons for withdrawing from the U21s to some extent. But he emphasized national team duty should take top priority. The manager added that Gravenberch could be recalled for the Netherlands’ next matches if he gets regular playing time at Liverpool.
Dutch technical director Nigel de Jong recently visited Liverpool for talks, likely paving the way for Gravenberch’s return to the national fold if he proves his commitment. Given the impressive start he has enjoyed at Anfield so far, it is fair to say that it is the Netherlands who will miss out if they do not call up the youngster.
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For now, Gravenberch remains left out of the squad to face Ireland and Gibraltar. But Koeman’s comments indicate the exile is over if the youngster shows he is willing to fully dedicate himself to the Netherlands.
