Ruben van Bommel’s performance in PSV’s 3-1 victory over Ajax has strengthened the belief that the winger is ready for international football, with ESPN analysts Karim El Ahmadi and Arnold Bruggink expecting Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernández to select him soon.

Van Bommel was one of the central figures in a fiery De Topper at the Johan Cruijff Arena on Saturday. While his heavy challenge on Ajax defender Aaron Bouwman sparked controversy and left the winger facing criticism, his overall performance also earned significant praise from the ESPN studio.

Bruggink believes Van Bommel possesses the qualities required of a modern wide player.

“He has everything from a modern winger,” Bruggink said, as quoted by PSV Inside after PSV’s 1-3 victory over Ajax. “He wants the balls played deep, but also at his feet.”

The former midfielder highlighted Van Bommel’s pace as one of his biggest weapons. In the eighth minute, the PSV winger burst down the flank and went past Anton Gaaei.

“He is so deadly fast in the first few meters. That gives him a lot of threat.”

Bruggink was also impressed by Van Bommel’s decision-making. The PSV winger showed that he could read the game rather than simply rely on his physical qualities.

“Normally you wouldn’t do this as a forward, but he immediately after that gives a pass that opens up Ajax. He combines technique with insight and scoring ability. But his foul spoils the whole match.”

That final point reflects the complicated nature of Van Bommel’s evening. His contribution to PSV’s performance was significant, but his collision with Bouwman became one of the defining talking points after the final whistle.

El Ahmadi nevertheless believes the winger has done enough to earn a place with the Netherlands.

“I think he’ll certainly be selected for Oranje, don’t you think?”

Bruggink agreed.

“I think so, yes.”

The timing is particularly notable because Hernández was present in the stands at the Johan Cruijff ArenA, watching the top-of-the-table clash in person.

Van Bommel’s actions after the match also drew attention. Following the controversial incident with Bouwman, the PSV winger went into the Ajax dressing room to apologise.

PSV technical director Earnest Stewart confirmed the gesture during ESPN’s Goedemorgen Eredivisie.

“After the game, he walked into Ajax's dressing room to offer his apologies. There were also emotions there.”

The incident had produced considerable tension during the match, with players and substitutes from both sides becoming involved. Referee Sander van der Eijk showed Van Bommel a yellow card, while VAR Pol van Boekel did not intervene.

Stewart, who was in the stands, said those involved in the technical areas also had a responsibility to prevent the situation from escalating.

“See if you have to look down to bring some calm, but that wasn't necessary,” Stewart said, as quoted by PSV Inside. “I think we should in any case stay off the pitch. We have to try to keep calm, because that is also an example for everyone and everything.”

He added:

“I saw that a lot of people were trying to bring some peace. Of course it’s a loaded match, especially at the start of the season. Everyone is looking for the development of the teams. Everything comes into play. We have to stay off the field. A lot happens within the lines; that’s what the referees are for.”

For Van Bommel, the night therefore carried two very different messages. His performance strengthened his case for an Oranje call-up, while his involvement in the controversial incident ensured that his discipline will remain part of the conversation.

With Hernández watching from the stands, the PSV winger had an opportunity to make his case directly. According to El Ahmadi and Bruggink, he may have done enough to force his way into the Netherlands picture.