Nov 12, 2026 5:30 PM

Following a masterclass hat-trick against Cambuur, the PSV midfielder’s red-hot form sparks intense debate over Ronald Koeman’s refusal to reward Eredivisie excellence with a national team call-up.

Valentijn Driessen believes Sven Mijnans deserves an opportunity with the Netherlands national team after the PSV midfielder delivered another influential performance in his side's 5-2 victory over SC Cambuur.

Speaking on De Telegraaf's Kick-off podcast, the journalist questioned why Mijnans had not been considered by former Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman, arguing that international selections should take current form into account rather than relying too heavily on established names.

Mijnans was central to PSV's success in Leeuwarden last weekend, scoring a hat-trick as Peter Bosz's side reclaimed top spot in the Eredivisie. Their victory came at a particularly important moment, with Feyenoord losing 5-3 to SC Heerenveen and Ajax being held to a 2-2 draw by FC Twente.

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Driessen Questions Koeman's Decision

Mijnans has become an increasingly influential figure at PSV, and his recent performances have strengthened the argument for an international opportunity.

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Driessen was particularly surprised that the midfielder had not received a chance under Koeman, despite finishing the previous campaign strongly.

“Why didn't Ronald Koeman take him along back then? Everyone said that he was inexperienced, but he's also fresh and had a good end to the season. National team coaches should also look at a player's form on the day,” Driessen said.

The journalist acknowledged that national team managers often have an established group of players they trust, but insisted that opportunities should still be made available to those performing well at club level.

“I can understand that your selection is more or less set, but you also have to give other players a chance. And that can also be good for the group's dynamic,” he added.

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One Area Mijnans Still Needs to Improve

Despite his strong endorsement, Driessen identified an aspect of Mijnans' game that still requires development.

The journalist pointed to the midfielder's performance against Club Brugge, suggesting that his speed of execution remains an area for improvement.

“Against Club Brugge, you could still see that Mijnans needs to improve his pace of action, but he is definitely a great footballer,” Driessen continued, as quoted by PSV Inside.

His colleague Mike Verweij also praised the PSV midfielder, drawing attention to the quality of his free-kick against Cambuur.

“The way he scored that free kick too...” Verweij remarked.

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Driessen then returned to PSV's response after Cambuur threatened to produce a comeback. Bosz's side had established a 3-0 lead before allowing the hosts to reduce the deficit to 2-3. However, PSV regained control and eventually secured a convincing 5-2 victory.

“You saw it at PSV... They went in whistling for 0-3, Cambuur came back to 2-3, but they put their foot down again and then it was suddenly 2-5,” he said.

Mijnans' performances have increasingly placed him in the conversation for international recognition. For Driessen, the midfielder's form makes a strong case for the Netherlands to give him an opportunity.

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