Reijnders offers insight into Netherlands role: “If I need to, I will talk” | OneFootball

Tijjani Reijnders had a fantastic season under Stefano Pioli, and he has been rewarded with a major role in the Netherlands’ European Championship squad. Before their game against Romania, the AC Milan midfielder spoke about his role in the team.

When Reijnders arrived, it was unknown what role he would play, given he is so versatile. Obviously, he is a player with strengths and weaknesses, and different circumstances allow both to be shown or hidden, and even if he had to play in a less influential role, there were not huge problems.

As a 6, an 8, or even as a 10, the Dutchman still had influences in the game, and showed he is able to play in a range of positions, which not only helps with depth, but also shows his willingness to help the team when called upon.

Under Paulo Fonseca, he will be one of the stars the team is built around, and it has seemed Ronald Koeman views him in a similar light because of his usage of him at Euro 2024 so far, and an interview from Reijnders suggests the same. His interview has been relayed by Milan News.

“As our captains said yesterday, we discussed firmly. Do I also take a role in those conversations? When necessary, certainly. But guys with tournament experience naturally talk more. But if I need to, I will talk. Everyone is now going in the same direction and we are very impatient to see what will happen. Because now it really matters: win or go home. That’s the approach.

“This morning we watched footage, today we will train on what to put on the field against them. We will make sure everyone is prepared tactically, physically and mentally. We need calmness in our game to react. Against Austria this calmness was not there at all. Against the Austrians we had many players on a bad day, including myself.”