Kees Smit Earns First Netherlands Call-Up, Bijlow and Brobbey Return
The Netherlands national team has announced its squad for upcoming friendly matches against Norway on March 27th and Ecuador on March 31st, with a notable debut for AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit. The call-up marks a significant moment for the 20-year-old, who has impressed this season and played a key role in the success of the Netherlands U19 team at the European Championship.
Smit’s inclusion comes as he continues to be linked with a potential transfer to a top European club, reportedly valued around €60 million. He recently helped lead AZ to the quarter-finals of the Conference League.
In addition to Smit’s first call-up, goalkeeper Justin Bijlow returns to the squad, replacing the injured Robin Roefs. Bijlow, 28, has regained his form with Genoa after battling injuries. Forward Brian Brobbey also makes a return to the national team.
These international friendlies serve as crucial preparation for the World Cup, which kicks off on June 14th with a match against Japan. The team will also play a friendly against Algeria on June 3rd as part of their preparations.
Luciano Valente has also been called up again for Oranje, according to RTV Noord.
The Netherlands will be without several players due to injury, including Robin Roefs, Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Justin Kluivert, and Emmanuel Emegha. Jurriën Timber and Noa Lang are included in the squad despite recent injury concerns.
