The wilderness years are over! Joey Veerman is back in the Netherlands national team setup, and his high-profile transfer to Borussia Dortmund has proven to be the golden ticket he needed. After a two-year absence from the Oranje squad, the dynamic midfielder returns with a renewed hunger, ready to make his mark under new national coach Xavi.
Key Points:
- Joey Veerman ends two-year Oranje exile, making a triumphant return to the national squad.
- His summer transfer from PSV to Borussia Dortmund is credited as the catalyst for his recall.
- Veerman emphasizes a "new beginning," shunning past frustrations to focus on Xavi's vision.
- The midfielder highlights the significant jump in intensity and tactical demands of the Bundesliga.
The Long-Awaited Oranje Return
It’s official: Joey Veerman has rejoined the Netherlands squad, ending a significant two-year spell away from the international stage. The 27-year-old midfielder's last appearance was in the Euro 2024 semi-final against England. His stellar form since moving to Borussia Dortmund has undeniably caught the eye of Xavi, who has wasted no time in bringing him back into the fold.
Dortmund's Golden Ticket to National Glory
Speaking from the national training center in Zeist, a visibly delighted Veerman expressed his excitement about reuniting with his international teammates. He wasted no time in crediting his move to Germany as the essential catalyst for his international resurgence, dismissing any notion of past frustrations.
"This is a new beginning for me with the Dutch national team," Veerman stated. "My transfer to Dortmund has been absolutely amazing, and there's no point looking back. I'm focused entirely on establishing myself in Xavi's squad now."
Bundesliga's Crucible: Forging a New Veerman
Veerman pulled no punches when comparing the intensity levels between the VriendenLoterij Eredivisie and the Bundesliga. He highlighted the elevated physical demands and the sheer competitive depth that defines German top-flight football. Having settled in Germany with his family, he's found that every training session demands far greater focus and application.
"The training is different; the intensity is on another level," Veerman elaborated. "You truly notice the difference in the German league. Even playing at home against a team like Paderborn feels like a completely different challenge compared to facing lower-tier teams in the Eredivisie with PSV."
Tactical Vision Under Xavi's Command
After attending initial tactical sessions, Veerman was quick to praise Xavi's clear philosophy, particularly his emphasis on ball possession and an aggressive offensive structure. Having consistently operated in a two-man central midfield at Dortmund, the 27-year-old is optimistic about securing minutes in his preferred deep-lying playmaker role. With upcoming Nations League fixtures on the horizon, Veerman is eager to translate his formidable club form onto the international stage for Oranje.
