Mixed Feelings on Ronald Koeman's Demeanor: 'We're Making Too Much of It'

Maaskant, however, praises the Dutch national coach's demeanor. "Ronald is Ronald, and we know he's a pragmatist," the former coach says about Koeman. "He's always very direct, and his approach has won him many trophies as both a player and a coach. I don't expect him to suddenly change, even though his wife Bartina suggested he could smile more. Well, he tried that for one day. It's just not in his character."

Boussaboun also believes the discussion surrounding Koeman's behavior is overblown. The former professional doesn't understand why so much emphasis is placed on how the national coach presents himself. "When someone has such a rich football history as a player and coach, you shouldn't expect him to suddenly change for the outside world at sixty. You should just be yourself. I think we're making far too much of it and focusing too much on how someone might or should be."

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Nevertheless, both analysts do see a clear difference between Koeman and previous Oranje national coaches. His way of speaking about the Netherlands' chances is particularly striking. "Both Van Gaal and Van Marwijk said they were on a mission to win the tournament," Maaskant states. "You don't hear Koeman say that; he's a realist. We all agree that the Netherlands isn't the favorite, but with a bit of luck..."

Boussaboun immediately chimes in, referencing Koeman's time at FC Barcelona. "Koeman was criticized for that at Barcelona too. They found him not ambitious enough."

Besides the national coach's behavior, Oranje's playing style was also extensively discussed in the podcast. "Koeman is a realist. He's looked at this squad and knows we have a problem with goal-scoring ability. That's why I found it striking when Koeman said: we have the right lineup, but not yet the right execution."

Maaskant and Boussaboun still see significant issues, particularly in midfield. "You can certainly raise some questions there. When you look at the midfield with Gravenberch, De Jong, and Reijnders... you're simply missing creativity," the former coach argues. Boussaboun sees a clear solution to Oranje's problem. "I think you really need a number 10, à la Justin Kluivert. Then you'd have depth from the second line, someone who can make a play and has a good shot. Now, it's essentially three of the same."

In the Sportnieuws.nl World Cup Football Podcast, Robert Maaskant and rotating guests discuss the latest World Cup news every morning. In the newest episode, Boussaboun joined to discuss, among other things, Morocco, Oranje, and Wout Weghorst's behavior. They also connected with reporter Aron Kleeven in America, where Oranje is preparing for the tournament in Kansas City.

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