Gullit criticizes Netherlands' defense: Van Dijk avoids duels, Van de Ven too reckless

Dutch legend Ruud Gullit has expressed concern over the Netherlands' recent defensive issues, criticizing the team's backline in his column for Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

The Dutch national team has conceded in all 12 of its matches this year. Gullit believes the defense lacks cohesion, with players often acting individually when pressing, setting offside traps, and tracking opponents. He stated that any individual misjudgment can cause the entire defensive system to collapse. He also pointed out problems in the coordination between the Dutch defense and midfield.

Gullit particularly questioned the Netherlands' aerial defense. Despite the good physical condition of Van Dijk, Dumfries, Van de Ven, and Van Hecke, the Dutch frequently lose aerial duels from opponents' set pieces. Gullit commented: "Van Dijk too often avoids confrontation." Additionally, he believes Timber tends to make poor defensive choices, and while Dumfries can pose a threat by pushing forward, he leaves significant space behind him.

Gullit also specifically discussed Van de Ven. He believes that while the defender possesses excellent speed, he is sometimes overly aggressive and tends to get involved in challenges unnecessarily. "Van de Ven wants to do everything so much that he gets into confrontations he shouldn't be involved in," Gullit said, jokingly calling the defender a "brokkenpiloot" (reckless driver), and noting that Van de Ven has frequently played while unwell or injured this season.

Gullit thinks Van de Ven should use his speed more intelligently rather than constantly relying on it to compensate for his own or his teammates' mistakes. "He needs to play more with his brain, anticipate more. That way, he will be involved in fewer confrontations and can use his speed at more appropriate moments," Gullit concluded, adding that goalkeeper Verbruggen is currently the most reliable player in the Dutch defense.

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