Frenkie de Jong Trains for Netherlands Before Euro 2024

In a promising development for the Netherlands just one week before the commencement of the European Championship, Frenkie de Jong, aged 27, has resumed training, as confirmed by coach Ronald Koeman on Sunday. Regarded as a pivotal figure for the Dutch team’s aspirations in the tournament held in Germany, De Jong rejoined his teammates on the training field for the first time on Sunday after undergoing individual training sessions over the past week.

Having grappled with ankle injuries throughout the season, De Jong has been sidelined from competitive play since April. “He participated in training but was kept away from any physical contact,” Koeman informed during a press conference preceding Monday’s final preparatory friendly against Iceland in Rotterdam. Koeman also acknowledged the possibility that De Jong might not be fit for the inaugural match. “It’s conceivable that Frenkie may not be available for the first game,” Koeman remarked. “However, we can afford to wait until the second or third match. Even if he misses the initial two games, he remains an integral part of the squad. However, if it appears that he’ll be absent for the entire group stage, we may need to reassess his inclusion.”

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Any adjustments to the 26-man squad, which was finalized on Friday, would need to be made prior to the Netherlands’ first Group D encounter against Poland in Hamburg next Sunday. Assessing the fitness levels of the Dutch squad ahead of the tournament, Koeman noted, “Several players were afforded some rest towards the conclusion of the season and have returned rejuvenated. While some players may not yet be prepared for a full 90 minutes, our training sessions have been productive.” Emphasizing the importance of timing in managing the players’ workload, Koeman added, “It’s imperative for us to gradually ease off and recuperate in time, ensuring that we enter the first match in peak physical condition.”