Pascal Struijk has voiced his frustration at being overlooked by Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman, admitting he doesn’t know what more he needs to do to earn an international call-up.
Speaking to ELF Voetbal, the Leeds United defender opened up about his disappointment at a lack of communication from the national team and his desire to finally represent his country at senior level.
The 25-year-old has been one of Leeds’ most consistent performers since their relegation in 2023, but remains frozen out of the Oranje setup — despite regularly featuring in the Premier League this season.
“Unfortunately, I never heard anything from national coach Ronald Koeman,” Struijk said. “I understand the Koeman brothers came to watch our match against Liverpool once. Six months later, we were relegated to the Championship. It makes sense then that other players would be prioritised.” — Pascal Struijk, via ELF Voetbal
Struijk Still Waiting for His Chance
Struijk’s only experience in Dutch colours came at youth level — three caps for the U-17s back in 2016. Despite being eligible for Belgium, where he was born, the centre-back has made it clear that his heart remains with the Netherlands.
He was included in the provisional 39-man squad ahead of the 2022 World Cup but failed to make the final cut. Since then, the call from Koeman has never come, something the Leeds defender admits has been difficult to accept.
“One of my goals this season is to get into the Dutch national team. I try to show that every week,” he added. “I don’t know what else I need to do to be considered for selection. Hopefully the national coach follows the Premier League matches.” — Pascal Struijk
Competition Fierce in the Netherlands Defence
It’s easy to see why Struijk has found it difficult to break in. The Netherlands boast extraordinary depth at centre-back — Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Aké, Matthijs de Ligt, Stefan de Vrij, Micky van de Ven, Jurrien Timber, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Sven Botman all regularly play at the highest level in Europe.
That stacked list makes selection tough, even for in-form defenders like Struijk. Still, his leadership and versatility at Leeds — where he has often captained the side and filled both central and left-sided roles — suggest he could yet play a role in the Oranje setup.
Our View: Struijk Deserves Recognition
In our view, Struijk’s frustration is justified. His performances in a resilient Leeds defence this season have been quietly impressive. He reads the game well, contributes in build-up play, and has developed the kind of maturity Koeman values in his squads.
His relegation-season dip likely damaged his visibility, but back in the Premier League, he’s showing that his composure and adaptability belong on the international stage.
Key Insights
- Pascal Struijk admits frustration at lack of contact from Ronald Koeman.
- The Leeds United defender hasn’t played for the Netherlands at senior level.
- Struijk says one of his main goals this season is to earn a first call-up.
- He was in the provisional 39-man 2022 World Cup squad but didn’t make the final list.
- Despite fierce competition, Struijk continues to impress in the Premier League.
What’s Next
Leeds face Brighton at the Amex on 1 November 2025, with Struijk expected to start once again. Another strong showing could further strengthen his case for a long-overdue international debut.
👉 Leeds fans — does Struijk deserve a Netherlands call-up after his recent form?
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