Ian Maatsen’s journey to his Euro 2024 call-up for the Netherlands was far from conventional. While holidaying on a yacht off the coast of the Greek island of Mykonos, Maatsen received the unexpected news. Despite the spontaneous nature of the call-up, the Chelsea full-back wasted no time and immediately joined the Dutch squad for training the following day.
Maatsen’s father, Edward Maatsen, played a crucial role in making his son’s dream a reality. Edward drove for hours from their home in Vlaardingen to Dortmund to retrieve Ian’s football boots, essential for his upcoming international debut. The strong family support and dedication to Ian’s football career were evident in their willingness to travel long distances to watch him play in the Bundesliga.
Maatsen’s inclusion in the squad came as a surprise to many, especially considering his impactful performance for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final against Real Madrid. Despite initial skepticism, Maatsen seized the opportunity to represent his country on the international stage. His commitment and determination were clear as he prepared for his first cap and the chance to compete in a major tournament.
For the Maatsen family, Ian’s Euro 2024 call-up was a moment of immense pride. Edward Maatsen expressed the joy and fulfillment that comes with seeing your child succeed at the highest level of their sport. The European Championship served as the pinnacle of Ian’s career thus far, and his family’s support was unwavering throughout the journey.
As the Netherlands gear up to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign in Hamburg against Poland, Ian Maatsen stands at the brink of a new chapter in his football career. From holidaying on a yacht to representing his country on the international stage, Maatsen’s story is a testament to perseverance, family support, and seizing unexpected opportunities in the world of football.
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