News has surfaced that the former striker influenced the tactical shift that triggered Oranje’s World Cup exit, raising questions about his suitability for Xavi Hernández’s new coaching staff.
Ruud van Nistelrooij has joined Xavi Hernández’s new Netherlands coaching staff, but the former PSV coach is already facing criticism over his role during the previous World Cup.
De Telegraaf journalist Mike Verweij has made a series of claims about Van Nistelrooij’s influence and his appointment.
Former PSV coach and striker Ruud van Nistelrooij is now part of the Netherlands national team’s technical staff under new head coach Xavi Hernández.
Van Nistelrooij formerly worked as an assistant to Ronald Koeman during the World Cup in North America, where the Netherlands ultimately suffered disappointment. Oranje topped their group before Morocco eliminated them in the round of 16 following a penalty shootout.
Koeman’s decision to use a five-man defence against Morocco subsequently attracted significant criticism. According to journalist Mike Verweij of De Telegraaf, Van Nistelrooij was among those who advocated the system.
![ Ruud van Nistelrooij will remain part of the Netherlands staff [IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters]](https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/d1ec1a22-d465-494f-8127-2cf4262164a2.jpeg)
Ruud van Nistelrooij will remain part of the Netherlands staff [IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters]Verweij Questions Van Nistelrooij’s Influence
Speaking on the Kick-off podcast, Verweij claimed that Van Nistelrooij, together with captain Virgil van Dijk, pushed for the tactical change against Morocco.
“First of all, Ronald Koeman is in charge of the lineup, but Virgil van Dijk and Ruud van Nistelrooij have argued for five defenders against Morocco. Their input at the World Cup is what led to the elimination of the Netherlands,” Verweij said, as quoted by PSV Inside.
The journalist also questioned why Van Nistelrooij was selected for the new technical staff, suggesting his relationship with KNVB technical director Nigel de Jong may have played a role.
“Nigel de Jong is obviously international enough, but then again, a lightweight. You could also choose someone who doesn’t have the same agent. There’s nothing to blame that agent for putting forward Ruud van Nistelrooij, but that is still very strange,” Verweij said.
Criticism Of Van Nistelrooij’s Record
Verweij also looked back at Van Nistelrooij’s previous involvement with the Netherlands setup, arguing that his international coaching record did not necessarily justify his latest appointment.
“Normally, based on what Van Nistelrooij achieved with the Netherlands national team under Guus Hiddink and Danny Blind, he would not have been selected for the 2016 European Championship. The 2021 European Championship was not a success under Frank de Boer,” the journalist added.
Van Nistelrooij will now work alongside Xavi, with the former PSV manager helping the new head coach shape the next era of Dutch international football.
Verweij’s comments, however, have placed renewed focus on Van Nistelrooij’s influence during the previous World Cup and the circumstances surrounding his return to the national-team setup.
