Netherlands Manager Ronald Koeman Lifts Ban on Ryan Gravenberch
After being banished from the Dutch national team setup for pulling out of the U21s squad in September, Ryan Gravenberch’s exile has come to an end. The 21-year-old midfielder withdrew from the U21s squad to focus on his move to Liverpool, which angered the Dutch FA (KNVB). U21s manager Michael Reiziger criticized Gravenberch’s decision, and Koeman supported him by excluding Gravenberch from the team in October and November. However, Koeman has now revealed that talks with Gravenberch have taken place, indicating a potential return to the national team.
During an interview with Ziggo Sport, Koeman explained that he had spoken to Gravenberch before the provisional squad selection was announced. He stated, “But if he continues to develop in this way, he will join the Dutch national team. I told him that I want to stick with the same group as much as possible in the upcoming international matches.” Koeman emphasized that the team is focused on qualifying for the European Championship and that Gravenberch’s inclusion depends on his playing time and development at Liverpool.
The visit of Nigel de Jong, technical director of the KNVB, to Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre last week suggests that the groundwork has been laid for Gravenberch’s reintegration into the national team. This meeting likely represented the first interaction between KNVB officials and Gravenberch, allowing Koeman to understand the midfielder’s reasons for rejecting the U21s call-up. When asked if Gravenberch would remain in exile, Koeman confidently replied, “No, that’s over.”
Koeman acknowledged that Gravenberch’s decision to withdraw from the U21s squad may have been understandable, but he stressed the importance of commitment to the national team. He stated, “We at the KNVB should never be happy if someone opts out without a good reason. We told Ryan: we understand it a bit, but we don’t think it’s OK. If you are called, you must come.”
With Gravenberch’s banishment lifted, his future with the Dutch national team looks promising. As he continues to develop and gain more playing time at Liverpool, he could become a key midfielder for the Netherlands in their quest for qualification and success in the European Championship.