Netherlands centre-back Matthijs de Ligt has spoken candidly about his experience being benched for his country’s opening Euro 2024 matches. The Dutch defender, who hoped to start for the team, revealed that he sought support from a psychologist and his family to cope with the emotional challenge.
De Ligt acknowledged the difficulty of being left out of the starting lineup, especially after a strong finish to the season with Bayern Munich. He emphasized the importance of processing his emotions and channeling his energy positively. Despite his initial disappointment, De Ligt remains committed to the team and believes his opportunity to shine will come.
The 24-year-old defender, who started for the Netherlands in the 2022 World Cup before being dropped by then-coach Louis van Gaal, acknowledged the importance of focusing on the long-term goals of the tournament. He highlighted his belief in his abilities and his determination to make a significant impact on the team’s success.
De Ligt’s situation highlights the psychological challenges faced by athletes when dealing with competition and the pressure to perform. Seeking professional support, as De Ligt has done, is a crucial step in maintaining mental well-being and optimizing performance.
Meanwhile, Netherlands striker Wout Weghorst, who came on as a substitute to score the winning goal against Poland, expressed his own perspective on the role of a super-sub. While acknowledging the satisfaction of making a decisive impact, Weghorst also reiterated his desire to be in the starting lineup.
With a draw against Austria guaranteeing their place in the last 16, the Netherlands are poised for a successful Euro 2024 campaign. The team’s depth and the individual determination of its players, including De Ligt, will be crucial in their pursuit of glory.
