Michael Reiziger, head coach of Jong Oranje, has announced the pre-selection for the upcoming international matches against Italy and Romania, spotlighting two Ajax talents: Youri Baas and Kian Fitz-Jim. The KNVB disclosed the announcement on March 1, 2025, identifying the 32-member squad as part of their efforts to evaluate potential talent for the upcoming UEFA Euro 2025 tournament scheduled for summer.
Baas and Fitz-Jim's inclusion is significant, as both players have demonstrated noteworthy performances at Ajax and are viewed as key prospects for the junior national team. Their selection aligns with Reiziger’s strategy to incorporate young players who show promise and depth, aiming to bolster the future of Dutch football. The upcoming practice matches, set for March 21 and 25, against Italy and Romania respectively, are seen as valuable opportunities for these young players to showcase their skills.
Interestingly, one notable omission from the list is midfielder Mohamed Ihattaren, who had previously garnered attention for his recent performances with RKC Waalwijk. Reports from ESPN highlight Reiziger's interest in potentially including Ihattaren on the squad for the Euro, yet it remains unsure why he is absent from this current pre-selection. This absence raises questions among fans about Ihattaren's future with Jong Oranje, especially as this summer will mark the last opportunity for him to represent the team, being born after January 1, 2002.
Alongside Baas and Fitz-Jim, other prominent names from the list include Ian Maatsen and Devyne Rensch. Rensch, who has recently made the move to AS Roma, finds himself back with Jong Oranje after not being considered fit enough for the senior team by coach Ronald Koeman. Similarly, Anass Salah-Eddine from Roma, Ryan Flamingo from PSV, and Ian Maatsen from Aston Villa round out the impressive pre-selection from several top-tier clubs across the Netherlands.
The pre-selection showcases the depth of talent available within the youth system, highlighting players like Youri Baas and Kian Fitz-Jim, who as Ajax representatives, stand as examples of the club's commitment to developing young talent. Baas has performed admirably, earning his call-up, which reflects his hard work and persistence at the club level.
The Jong Oranje will have their first match against Italy as part of this evaluation process, providing fans and selectors alike the chance to witness how these young talents hold up against the Italian side. The squad's composition features players from various clubs, which also emphasizes the collaborative spirit of Dutch football and its commitment to promoting youth.
Reflecting on the significance of the matches against Italy and Romania, the upcoming fixtures will also serve as indicators for Reiziger on which players have the potential to make the transition to the senior national team. The two matches are more than just practice games; they present opportunities for these young athletes to assert their skills on the international stage and raise their profile as contenders for future competitions.
Overall, the selection process of Jong Oranje under Michael Reiziger is indicative of the KNVB's broader strategy to invest in youth talent, ensuring the Netherlands has strong prospects moving forward. The focus on young players and their integration reflects major advancements within youth football and will be pivotal as the Netherlands aims to make its mark at the upcoming Euro 2025 tournament.