Marten de Roon, Bergamo's own, returns as the Netherlands' pillar of stability
Frenkie de Jong brings creativity, Tijjani Reijnders brings talent, and alongside them stands a Dutch-born midfielder whom Ronald Koeman sees as a sure thing. When the Netherlands' seasoned manager selected his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, he had no doubts about including Marten de Roon, who makes his return to the national setup after an absence of over two years.
The reason for this becomes clear when you consider the statistics, or indeed when you look past them. With 445 appearances wearing Atalanta's colours, de Roon holds the record for most games played in the club's history. No other player has featured in more Serie A, Champions League, or European matches for the Bergamo club.
He serves as captain, the leader in the dressing room, and the most recognisable figure in an Atalanta side that has, over recent years, cemented its place among European football's elite.
Character and Equilibrium
Upon his arrival in Bergamo, he was simply another foreigner. Now, he stands as one of the players who epitomise the city's character.
He reflected on the bond he has built with Bergamo, stating: 'It goes beyond merely playing for a club: it is about representing a city, its supporters, and its mindset.' This is a city that, much like him, labours diligently, perseveres, and seldom seeks attention.
That may well be why Koeman decided to recall him to Oranje. After missing Euro 2024 due to injury, the 35-year-old had slipped off the national team's radar during the overhaul initiated by the manager. It appeared his international career had ended. But on the eve of the World Cup, his name resurfaced in one of the most unexpected and also most significant selections.
His ability to maintain equilibrium might be unparalleled, owing to how he covers ground and shields the backline. Yet there is more: as captain of Atalanta, he organises his team-mates and reads the flow of the game. Unsurprisingly, in Gian Piero Gasperini's system, he has been an integral component for years. Whenever the need arises to slow the pace, regain possession, or initiate the press, he is ever present.
A Veteran's Enthusiasm
The Netherlands bound for the United States might not rank among the outright favourites, but they are viewed as a potential dark horse in the tournament. With leaders such as Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong, Koeman has assembled a squad brimming with experience and talent. In this setting, de Roon's inclusion serves as a form of tactical insurance. He will be able to perform the role he has fulfilled throughout his career: elevating the performance of those around him.
He also stated in a recent interview that he approaches the United States with the mindset of a veteran but the carefree attitude of a young player, despite this being his second World Cup: 'The coming weeks should not become a school outing, but I will savour them knowingly.'
He further emphasised his enthusiasm for this adventure, regardless of the outcome: 'For me, it is straightforward. If I am in the starting eleven, that is wonderful. If I do not get a single minute but the team puts in an exceptional display, I will relish it completely. I aim to experience this final tournament in the most positive and enjoyable manner possible.'