Dutch coach on Inter Milan defender: “The leader of this team”

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman believes Inter Milan winger Denzel Dumfries is one of the leaders of the Dutch national team.

During the pre-match press conference ahead of the UEFA Nations League match between the Netherlands and Bosnia and Herzegovina, via FCInternewsKoeman discussed Dumfries’ value to the squad.

Despite not being a regular in Simone Inzaghi’s starting line-up at Inter, the former PSV Eindhoven defender holds a special place in the national team.

He was irreplaceable for Koeman’s team at EURO 2024, securing a place in the starting lineup.

The foundation of the Netherlands’ success under Koeman was Dumfries’ partnership on the pitch with Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo.

While Inzaghi it’s still changing 28-year-old Oranje coach Matteo Darmian has a different opinion about Dumfries.

Koeman is convinced the right-back is as valuable as other stars such as Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Ake.

Ronald Koeman names Inter Milan star Denzel Dumfries as one of the leaders of the Dutch national team

“You always need experience in our team,” Koeman said. “For me, the leaders are Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake, Denzel Dumfries and Wout Weghorst.

“We also have players aged 25-26.”

Koeman’s flattering statement underlines the importance of Dumfries to his country.

Meanwhile, Inter fans hope he will reach the same level in the club.

Last season, Dumfries were at times the better side, forcing Inzaghi to constantly rotate on the right wing.

The Dutchman shared his playing time with Darmian. Despite his limitations in attack, the Italian defender was excellent in defence.

If Denzel Dumfries If he could work on his defensive play, there is no doubt he would become an undisputed starter in Giuseppe Meazza’s team.

The lack of a permanent place in the starting line-up for the 2023/24 season has left the attacking right-back with doubts about his Serie A future.

Indeed, he refused to sign a new contract with Inter in the summer, hoping that the Premier League would show interest in him.