Derksen questions Frenkie de Jong’s consistency after Sweden win

Johan Derksen has praised Frenkie de Jong’s performance for the Netherlands against Sweden but questioned whether the midfielder can maintain such high standards consistently. Derksen made the remarks during an appearance on Vandaag Inside, where he also discussed social media pressures on top footballers. Derksen opened the segment by asking, “Do you understand why footballers are so sensitive?” before referencing De Jong’s recent 5-1 victory over Sweden. The Oranje international had delivered a standout display, prompting widespread praise. The former Dutch international then addressed social media criticism faced by players like De Jong. “I hear dramatic stories: social media is the biggest opponent of our top footballers. That’s easily fixed—I did it too: stop using social media,” he said. Derksen continued, “I hear nasty things about me sometimes, but I don’t see them. They’re so vain and curious about themselves.” He criticised media narratives, calling out players who dismiss criticism as unjustified despite lacking understanding of the game. Piet van der Gijp echoed Derksen’s cautious optimism about De Jong. “We’re fans of Frenkie de Jong. What he did on Saturday was not normal. But is that the standard? He won’t always reach that level,” Van der Gijp said.

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He added, “Iniesta and Xavi reached that level three times a week. Maybe that’s not realistic for De Jong. I don’t think he can hit that every week.” Derksen interjected, “I won’t deny he’s a fantastic footballer. Opponents can’t get near him when he has the ball, but he needs to advance 20 or 30 metres forward.” He concluded, “I always feel he can do better. He’s a good player, but why not make his actions in the penalty area instead of on the edge of it?”

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The discussion took place during a segment on Vandaag Inside, where Derksen also promoted the latest Studio Oranje podcast featuring Daryl Janmaat. The podcast covers the upcoming World Cup, Janmaat’s career, comparisons between Louis van Gaal and Ronald Koeman, and profiles of Brian Brobbey and Denzel Dumfries.