Ian Maatsen, an uncapped player, received a last-minute call-up to join the Netherlands squad for the European Championship while he was on vacation on a yacht in Mykonos. His father made the six-hour journey from their home in Vlaardingen to Dortmund to bring Maatsen’s boots and personal items so he could quickly join the Dutch team in Wolfsburg. Maatsen’s family has always been involved in supporting his career, regularly traveling to watch him play in the Bundesliga. The opportunity to participate in a major tournament like the European Championship is a source of immense pride for the Maatsen family.
Maatsen’s inclusion in the Netherlands squad came as a result of injuries to Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners, which opened up a spot for the young left wingback. Despite his initial omission from the squad, Maatsen’s performance during the 2023-24 season while on loan at Borussia Dortmund from Chelsea helped the team reach the Champions League final, although they ultimately lost to Real Madrid. Maatsen wasted no time in joining the Dutch squad for training after their victory over Iceland in a friendly match in Rotterdam, setting his sights on earning his first cap and making an impact in the upcoming European Championship.
For Maatsen, being called up to represent his country in a major tournament like the European Championship is a dream come true. His father’s efforts to ensure he had the necessary equipment to join the squad at short notice exemplify the strong support system that has helped Maatsen reach this milestone in his career. As the Dutch team prepares to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Poland, Maatsen is focused on making the most of this opportunity and contributing to his team’s success on the international stage.
The Maatsen family’s commitment to supporting Ian in his football career is evident in the lengths they went to ensure he could join the Netherlands squad for the European Championship tournament. Despite the challenges of being on vacation when he received the call-up, Maatsen’s dedication and determination to seize the opportunity presented to him highlights his passion for the sport and his desire to represent his country at the highest level. As Maatsen prepares to make his international debut in the European Championship, the support of his family and the experience gained from his time with Borussia Dortmund will serve as valuable assets in his quest for success on the international stage.
Joining the Netherlands squad for the European Championship is a significant achievement for Maatsen, who has worked hard to establish himself as a talented left wingback in the Bundesliga. His performance on loan at Borussia Dortmund during the previous season showcased his potential and earned him a spot in the Dutch squad for the prestigious tournament. As Maatsen settles in with his national team teammates in Wolfsburg and prepares for the upcoming matches, he remains focused on making a positive impact and helping the Netherlands achieve success in the European Championship.
As Maatsen’s father played a key role in ensuring his son could join the Netherlands squad for the European Championship, the Maatsen family’s unwavering support and dedication to Ian’s football career are evident. The journey from their home to Dortmund and then on to Wolfsburg reflects the sacrifices and commitment required to participate in a major tournament like the European Championship. With the Dutch team set to begin their campaign against Poland in Hamburg, Maatsen is eager to seize the opportunity and fulfill his dream of representing his country on the international stage, making his family proud and continuing to build on his promising career in professional football.
