Koeman says Malen missed chances as competition heats up

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman warned that striker Donyell Malen has missed opportunities since being deployed as a centre‑forward at the World Cup in Kansas City. In the opening group match against Japan, Malen played as a striker but failed to score in a 2‑2 draw. He arrived in Kansas City with towering expectations, having been the in‑form striker for Oranje and impressing at AS Roma during the preceding half‑year. An Italian journalist, seated just outside Arrowhead Stadium, asked Ronald Koeman why Malen was struggling at the tournament. "Natuurlijk weet Donyell dat hij, vanaf het moment dat hij bij ons in de spits is gaan spelen, kansen heeft gemist", Koeman said, recalling a long conversation with the forward on the training field. The coach emphasized that Malen is aware of the chances he failed to convert.

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In the preparatory games, the Netherlands lost 0‑1 to Algeria, beat Uzbekistan 2‑1, and drew 2‑2 with Japan, with Malen starting as striker in each fixture but not finding the net. He created opportunities and was valuable for the team, yet the goals came from elsewhere. Brian Brobbey seized his chance against Sweden, scoring twice, and Malen was substituted at halftime for Crysencio Summerville. Summerville later contributed a goal and an assist in the second half.

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"Topsport is knetterhard, maar je hebt als staf wel de verantwoordelijkheid om met name de jongens aandacht te geven die minder spelen", Koeman explained, noting that the reserves have so far maintained positive energy. He added that the selection is working well together and that disappointed players are not affecting the squad. Koeman highlighted that Micky van de Ven, Memphis Depay and Crysencio Summerville are three players on the edge of the starting eleven, with a yellow card potentially leading to suspension. The World Cup final will be held in New Jersey on 19 July, and the Dutch side is still only two matches into the tournament.