Belgrade evening: Xavi's creativity clashes with criticism of Van de Ven

The Netherlands national team visited Serbia on Sunday evening in the Nations League, with the match in Belgrade. Coach Xavi Hernández let his team go all out, but one player stood out negatively, an observation that virtually all home viewers immediately noted.

Creativity and possession

The Dutch had the majority of possession against Serbia in Belgrade. Given the track record of both sides, that was not particularly remarkable in itself. Still, a lot of creativity was needed to break through the defence.

Xavi Hernández placed Joey Veerman, a midfielder from Borussia Dortmund, in a key role to provide that creativity. However, the German club player could not unlock the game on his own. The team had to collectively show more initiative.

Criticism of Van de Ven and transfer rumours

For many Dutch fans, Micky van de Ven, the centre‑back of Tottenham Hotspur who often plays as a left‑back for the Netherlands, stood out as the odd one out. His possession was fiercely criticised on social media. Viewers called his play “a real disappointment”.

Xavi Hernández tests own approach with the Dutch, Van de Ven reacts

“That must hurt Xavi’s eyes, right? That ball‑handling from his so‑called stars Ryan Gravenberch and Micky van de Ven,” wrote a Premier‑League follower. Another user added: “Gravenberch and Van de Ven are both terribly out of form.”

“Micky van de Ven is truly terrible. No one is going to convince me that he is a footballer,” said a third comment. “Loss of possession after loss of possession, poor passer. Apparently we have nothing better,” added a fourth viewer, while he mentioned Spurs’ last‑place standing.

Earlier that same Sunday, news from England reported that Liverpool remains interested in the left‑footed centre‑back of Tottenham Hotspur. TEAMtalk reported that the Dutch left‑back should become the successor to Virgil van Dijk, a move that could potentially lead to AC Milan.

Netherlands kick off the Nations League in Serbia under Xavi's guidance

The contrast between the need for creativity on the pitch and the harsh criticism off the field underscores the challenge for Xavi Hernández. While the squad searches for better combinations, the rumours surrounding Van de Ven continue to fuel public debate.