Donyell Malen’s international form is under scrutiny after another quiet showing for the Netherlands during the September international break. The Aston Villa forward featured in both matches — an 11-minute cameo in a 1-1 draw against Poland and then an 89-minute start versus Lithuania — but failed to produce a goal or assist.
The 26-year-old has a respectable record of 11 goals and 9 assists for his country but just two of those strikes have come in his last 10 appearances, both in an 8-0 win over Malta. Before that, he hadn’t scored since the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Romania.
Van der Vaart, speaking on NOS, admitted he was left disappointed by Malen’s inability to impose himself at international level.
Van der Vaart: “I Expect More”
The former Tottenham and Netherlands playmaker said Malen’s talent warrants higher output in Oranje colours:
“I expect more. He was a bit more dangerous in the second half. The way he comes on as a substitute, and I know the game is often over before something has to happen, but I expect more from him. I have such high regard for him.” — Rafael van der Vaart, NOS
Club vs Country Contrast
At Aston Villa, Malen has been revitalised since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund. He has quickly established himself as a key figure in Unai Emery’s system, linking well with Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby. His form in the Premier League suggests he has the tools to deliver more consistently for his country.
Yet for the Netherlands, where competition for attacking spots includes Cody Gakpo, Xavi Simons and Brian Brobbey, Malen has struggled to convince. The disparity between club and international output is fuelling frustration among fans and pundits alike.
Malen’s Netherlands Stats
| Stat (Netherlands Career) | Donyell Malen |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 43 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 9 |
| Last 10 Caps (Goals) | 2 |
source: Netherlands national team stats – 8 September 2025
The numbers underline Van der Vaart’s point: Malen contributes, but not often enough in decisive moments.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes the Netherlands’ system may not suit Malen’s strengths:
“Malen thrives at Aston Villa in transitions, where his pace and directness stretch defences. With the Netherlands, against packed low blocks, his impact diminishes. Van der Vaart’s criticism is fair, but perhaps it’s as much about system fit as individual performance. If the Dutch can harness his Villa form, he still has the potential to be a difference-maker at the World Cup.”
Key Insights
- Malen criticised by Van der Vaart after quiet September internationals.
- Two goals in his last 10 Netherlands appearances.
- Four assists already for Aston Villa this season show club form remains strong.
- Questions growing about his role in Tuchel’s Oranje attack.
- Van der Vaart: “I expect more… I have such high regard for him.”
What’s Next for Malen?
Malen will return to Aston Villa after the break, where Emery’s side face Newcastle in the Premier League. If his club form continues to outshine his international record, pressure will mount on Netherlands boss Thomas Tuchel to either adapt his system or reconsider Malen’s role.
For a player entering his prime, the next 12 months — leading into the 2026 World Cup — could define his international reputation.
👉 Should the Netherlands persist with Malen in the starting XI, or look elsewhere if his struggles continue?
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