Bergwijn"s Saudi Move Ends Netherlands International Career

Steven Bergwijn's recent transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia for 21 million euros has led to the end of his international career with the Netherlands. The 26-year-old forward, who previously captained Ajax, had been a key player for the national team since 2018, participating in significant tournaments like the European Championship and the World Cup. His decision to move abroad has raised questions about his sporting ambitions, as Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman indicated that such a move does not align with the competitive goals of the national team. Koeman confirmed that Bergwijn's international prospects are effectively closed, stating that the focus on sporting ambition is not a priority for players moving to leagues like Saudi Arabia. This contrasts with the situation of Georginio Wijnaldum, who, despite playing in Saudi Arabia, was still selected for Euro 2024 due to his circumstances of seeking more playing time after a decline in status at Paris Saint-Germain. Bergwijn's departure marks a significant shift in his career trajectory, as he had previously expressed a desire to explore opportunities abroad if they arose. His contributions to the Dutch national team included starting roles in crucial matches during the last European Championship and the World Cup, showcasing his talent on an international stage. The implications of this transfer extend beyond Bergwijn's personal career, as it reflects a broader trend of players moving to less competitive leagues for financial incentives, potentially impacting the quality and competitiveness of national teams in international tournaments.