Joël Piroe explains how Zoom call convinced him to choose Suriname over Netherlands

Joël Piroe has revealed how a direct conversation with Suriname manager Henk ten Cate convinced him to change international allegiance, ending his long-held ambition of representing the Netherlands.

The Leeds United striker says an honest and transparent Zoom call left an immediate impression and ultimately led him to commit to Suriname.

Joël Piroe has been speaking to Voetbal International about his season, his future at Leeds United, and the decision that has dominated headlines this month — his choice to represent Suriname.

Despite previously playing for the Netherlands at Under-20 level, Piroe never received a senior call-up for Netherlands, even after strong spells in the Championship.

That door never fully closed in his mind — until recently.

Suriname had already made approaches in the past under former head coach Stanley Menzo, but Piroe turned them down, holding on to the hope of a future with the Oranje.

That changed after Henk ten Cate took over earlier this year and made one of his first priorities clear.

Ten Cate arranged a Zoom call with Piroe and his father, outlining his vision for the team and the role he wanted the Leeds striker to play.

“He really got me thinking and convinced me to make this choice,” Piroe explained.

“We were both impressed by Mr. Ten Cate’s story. He has an openness and honesty that immediately resonated with me. I immediately felt good.”

Piroe said the clarity of the conversation was key to his decision.

“He convinced me with his story, was transparent about his plans for the team and the role he envisions for me,” he added.

“A spark was kindled.”

The emotional weight of the decision was felt most strongly at home.

“When I told my father about my decision, I saw a twinkle in his eye,” Piroe said.

“He hugged me, congratulated me and told me how proud he was. He already is, but this is something special for him as well.”

The international switch comes amid a challenging domestic season for Piroe at Leeds United, where he has found himself behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the Premier League pecking order.

That situation had fuelled speculation about a potential move away from Elland Road, but Piroe insisted a transfer is not currently on the agenda.

Instead, the focus is on rediscovering momentum at club level while embracing a fresh international chapter.

With international clarity secured, Piroe will look to turn renewed confidence into performances for Leeds, while preparing for his first appearances in Suriname colours — a decision rooted as much in trust and family pride as footballing ambition.

Will this international reset help Joël Piroe rediscover his best form at Leeds United?