Justin Kluivert feared missing World Cup after March knee surgery

Justin Kluivert feared missing the FIFA World Cup after undergoing knee surgery in March. The Bournemouth AFC midfielder revealed his concerns during an interview with , admitting he was 'very worried' about his participation.

The 12-time Netherlands international missed time with Oranje due to the injury and subsequent operation. Kluivert returned to action for Bournemouth late in the season and secured fitness in time for the tournament. He described the period as mentally challenging, stating it 'ate away' at him.

Kluivert’s wife played a key role in supporting him through the recovery. 'Ask my wife, she knows everything about this,' he said. 'I wasn’t grumpy at home, but I was very worried. She understands how much this World Cup means to me.' His wife urged him to focus on Bournemouth first, knowing the personal significance of his Netherlands call-up.

The midfielder has played for multiple European clubs after leaving Ajax, including AS Roma, RB Leipzig and OGC Nice. Despite club changes, Kluivert never removed Oranje from his priorities. 'I knew: I can do it, I belong there,' he said. 'Too often I’ve thought: Come on, call me up, it’s my time now.'

He admitted the frustration of missing Netherlands selections in the past. 'Every time it felt like a disappointment not to be in the squad,' Kluivert explained. 'You slowly disappear from view when you switch clubs often and don’t always play. Once you’re out of sight, it becomes harder to return.'

Kluivert’s return to fitness coincided with his timely inclusion in the Netherlands squad for the World Cup. The midfielder completed his rehabilitation and resumed training with Bournemouth before the tournament began.

During the interview, Kluivert reflected on his long-standing ambition to represent Oranje at major tournaments. His persistence paid off as he earned his place in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad after overcoming injury setbacks.

Justin Kluivert: "I was very worried. My wife knows how much this World Cup means to me. She kept telling me to focus on Bournemouth first."

The midfielder’s experience highlights the mental toll injuries can take on players chasing international recognition. His return to Oranje’s squad underscores the importance of timing and resilience in a footballer’s career.