Ruben van Bommel’s explosive return from injury puts the PSV winger in the spotlight as new manager Xavi Hernández prepares to name his first Netherlands squad.
PSV general manager Marcel Brands believes Ruben van Bommel is firmly on Xavi Hernández’s radar ahead of the new Netherlands manager’s first squad announcement, although he admits the winger may benefit from waiting a little longer.
Xavi is preparing to announce his first Netherlands squad next Friday, with attention already turning to several players who could feature in his plans. Among them are former PSV midfielder Joey Veerman and current PSV winger Ruben van Bommel.
Van Bommel’s case has strengthened considerably since the beginning of the season. The 22-year-old has returned from a serious cruciate ligament injury and has quickly re-established himself as an important attacking player for PSV.
Brands believes that progress has put Van Bommel in contention for Oranje, even if he remains cautious about whether an immediate call-up would be ideal.
“On the one hand, I think it might be better if he isn't selected just yet. On the other hand, I do think he is on the list. I do think he is a player with special qualities.”
The PSV director also pointed to the physical demands of international football and Van Bommel’s recent return from injury, as relayed by PSV Inside.
“If you're going to build something with Oranje, then I think he is going to become a serious option. He comes off a cruciate ligament injury and he isn't yet in the rhythm of double matches.”
Brands has already had the opportunity to meet Xavi, who was appointed Netherlands head coach in August after succeeding Ronald Koeman. The KNVB confirmed that Xavi has agreed a contract through the 2030 World Cup.
The two spoke briefly about Van Bommel during their meeting around PSV’s 3-1 victory over Ajax.
“I got to know Xavi last week and we also talked about it briefly with Nigel. I don’t know how he manages it himself, but that he knocks on the door seems pretty clear to me.”
Khalid Boulahrouz believes Van Bommel’s continued development could make his selection difficult to ignore.
“You could say that it is too early, but if he continues to hold on to this, then I think that he will be there at the next international break.”
Boulahrouz is also interested in whether Xavi will use the early stages of his tenure to introduce younger players rather than relying entirely on established names.
“I am very curious whether he dares to deviate from the World Cup squad. Whether he dares to depart from the regular names and give the young boys a chance.”
Rafael van der Vaart raised a similar issue, pointing to the limited opportunities young players can receive when competitive international fixtures dominate the calendar.
“That is also the unfortunate thing about the Nations League. Now it is at least about something and you include them less easily. For boys like these, then it is a pity that you don't take them along earlier.”
As Xavi’s first selection approaches, Van Bommel’s name is firmly part of the conversation. Whether that results in an immediate debut or a little more time at PSV remains one of the first selection decisions of the new Oranje era.
