The PSV winger’s stoppage-time heroics against Germany ignited a frenzy among pundits, who believe the young star's technical brilliance marks the beginning of a new Oranje era.
Ruben van Bommel made a strong impact on his Netherlands debut, earning praise from ESPN analysts Kenneth Perez and Bram van Polen after his assist helped Xavi Hernández's side draw 1-1 with Germany.
The PSV winger came off the bench in the 83rd minute for Crysencio Summerville and produced the decisive moment in stoppage time. Van Bommel delivered a superb cross with the outside of his right foot, allowing former PSV player Cody Gakpo to volley home the equaliser in the 92nd minute.
His impact was highlighted in Voetbalpraat, where Perez praised the way the young winger handled his first appearance at the international level.
“I like it when we see Eredivisie players go up on a stage like this and just do it. That you don’t have to think: ‘Oh shit, this doesn’t look right.’”
Van Polen was equally impressed, describing Van Bommel as a player with significant potential and also pointing to the competition he faces for a place on the left side of the Netherlands attack.
“He’s a top player in the making. I really think so. He has so many facets. But you do have to deal with Cody Gakpo, who is normally really a safe bet on the left.”
Perez: ‘Van Bommel is the future’
Perez acknowledged that Gakpo has also operated from the right for Liverpool, while Crysencio Summerville provides another option for Xavi on that flank.
However, the former midfielder believes Van Bommel's development deserves particular attention, especially after the serious injury that kept him out for a prolonged period.
“Van Bommel is the future. It is incredibly great to see how a footballer has become a much better version of himself through the worst injury there is.”
The discussion also turned towards how Xavi could accommodate Van Bommel without limiting Gakpo's role in the team.
As relayed by PSV Inside, Van Polen suggested that Gakpo could potentially be used through the middle if Van Bommel eventually establishes himself as a regular option on the left.
“You don’t want to get in the way of Van Bommel’s development, but Gakpo, so to speak, could still play in that position for almost ten years. In my opinion, Gakpo has played in the striker role at PSV more than once; that could be an option.”
Van Bommel's debut therefore provided Xavi with another attacking option while giving the PSV winger an early opportunity to demonstrate what he can offer at the international level. His late assist ensured that his first Oranje appearance ended with a tangible contribution on the scoresheet.
