Nigel de Jong is still chasing success with the Netherlands long after hanging up his boots ahead of tonight’s reunion with England.
The former Manchester City midfielder has stepped into a new role off the pitch that his country has put to good use at Euro 2024.
The 81-cap Dutch international came so close to delivering silverware for Oranje during his illustrious playing days.
De Jong was a memorable part of the Netherlands’ World Cup final defeat to Spain in 2010 with his infamous high boot on Xabi Alonso.
The 39-year-old then won bronze in Brazil four years later but has now been focused on developing the next generation since retiring.
What is De Jong’s role with the Netherlands?
De Jong is currently the director of football at the Dutch FA (KNVB).
The former midfielder succeeded Jan Hoogsma in the role in January 2023 and works closely with Dutch head coach Ronald Koeman.
He said upon his appointment: “It is a very good prospect to get started in this position, in which I want to help improve Dutch top football, among men and women.
“The Netherlands has always had the ambition to be among the best in the world. The current talent and the history justify that ambition.”
De Jong is responsible for streamlining football development in the Netherlands across both the men and the women’s national team.
He added: “Working in top football requires specific knowledge and experience.
“In my years as a player, I gained that at various clubs at home and abroad and I can now use it.
“It has been 17 years since I left the Netherlands, but of course, I have always followed Dutch football. And I feel like I’ve always been a part of it.”
De Jong made 137 appearances for Man City and won both the Premier League and FA Cup before leaving for AC Milan in 2012.
The Dutchman has also been an infrequent pundit for ITV during international tournaments since retiring but now is taking his words into action to help Virgil van Dijk and co.
He will now be hoping that the Netherlands can overcome some familiar faces in the England squad as they meet in the semi-finals of Euro 2024 this evening, live on talkSPORT.
talkSPORT is bringing you live commentary of EVERY game at Euro 2024. Tune in via the website or the app, and follow our live Euro 2024 blog for all the latest news, views and reaction to the big moments.
News Summary:
- What is Nigel de Jong’s role with the Netherlands? Ex-Man City star working in new position as Oranje face England at Euro 2024
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