Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee has abandoned a trip to Disney World after getting a last-minute call-up to the national team for Euro 2024.
The 23-year-old had initially been left out of the 26-man-squad picked by manager Ronald Koeman for the tournament.
But after Dutch midfield pairing Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners were ruled out of the tournament due to an ankle problem and a groin injury, respectively, Koeman has decided to bring in reinforcements.
Believing himself to be free for the next few weeks, Zirkzee had opted to spend what he thought would be a summer holiday in Disney World in Florida.
He was enjoying his trip when he got the news.
The Bologna forward shared a selfie of himself on social media, showing himself with a huge grin on his face and captioning the picture: ‘When you get the call to leave Disney for the Euros’.
He followed up the picture with a video showing himself heading away from Disneyland and towards Euro 2024, adding in the words: ‘Happy me pt 2’.
Thankfully, Zirkzee has been offered the chance to return to Disneyland Paris after being sent a message on social media.
Translated via Google, Disney’s message said: “Joshua, good luck at @euro2024 and we invite you to complete your Disney trip after the storm at Disneyland Paris!”
The young striker is fresh off the back of an excellent season with Bologna in Serie A, scoring 12 goals across his 37 appearances in all competitions.
His contributions helped Bologna to a fifth-place finish in the league, meaning they will compete in the Champions League next season.
His performances have also attracted the attention of at least two big Premier League names, with Arsenal and Manchester United both keeping eyes upon the striker.
With both clubs keen to bolster their attacking options ahead of next season, Zirkzee could provide an excellent asset, with his Bologna release clause standing at a modest £34 million.
Zirkzee, along with fellow last-minute call-up Ian Maatsen, will now join up with the Netherlands squad ahead of their opening game on Sunday 16 June against Poland.
The Oranje must also face favourites France as well as Austria in their group fixtures as they look to make it into the knockout stages.
Poland vs the Netherlands is live on talkSPORT on Sunday 16 June from 2pm.
News Summary:
- I was in Disney World when I answered my country’s call to play at Euro 2024
- Check all news and articles from the latest Football updates.