Justin Kluivert returns for Netherlands after injury

Justin Kluivert will travel to Qatar with the Netherlands national team after being cleared for the World Cup. The 27-year-old Bournemouth forward has earned twelve senior caps. He said he is “super eager” ahead of the tournament. Kluivert suffered a knee injury in a match against Arsenal that required surgery. The operation threatened his participation in what would be his first major tournament. He spent the following months in a race against the clock to regain fitness. Throughout rehab Kluivert kept Ronald Koeman updated via messages, noting progress. He made his first minutes of the season against Manchester City after four months out. After the match he broke down in tears following a hug with his father Patrick Kluivert, former Dutch top scorer.

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Koeman invited Kluivert to Zeist for a final fitness check, where staff confirmed his physical condition. Kluivert admitted he was nervous because he had little game time. He played the full first half against Algeria, providing pace and dribbling as an attacking midfielder behind Memphis Depay. The Netherlands will start the World Cup with a midfield of Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool) and Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City). Kluivert adds speed and a different style to that core, complementing Reijnders. He said he is happy to offer a “different flavor” in the midfield.

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Kluivert reiterated the squad’s goal to become world champions. He believes the tournament will ignite the Dutch team’s belief.