Bogarde urges Koeman to start Hato over Van de Ven

Former defender Winston Bogarde told that he believes Ronald Koeman should start Jorrel Hato instead of Micky van de Ven for the Netherlands senior team. He highlighted that Van de Ven has only two caps and failed to make a strong impression, pointing to Sweden’s goal against the Netherlands as an example of defensive frailty.

Bogarde described Van de Ven as the weakest defender in the current base squad, saying his positional play is ‘very mediocre’. He added that Van de Ven relies excessively on speed, which is insufficient when opponents also field fast attackers.

Bogarde recalled an incident where Van de Ven was outrun by Anthony Elanga over forty metres despite having the initial advantage. He noted that Elanga was not in the starting lineup, suggesting that a starter like Van de Ven could have allowed Sweden more danger on their right flank.

In contrast, Bogarde praised Hato as ‘much better and more comfortable on the ball’ than Van de Ven. He also considered Hato defensively superior, making him a viable alternative for the national side.

Bogarde pointed out that Hato’s progress at Chelsea followed a difficult start, after which he secured a regular starting role midway through the season. He emphasized that Hato has demonstrated his abilities in top‑level matches for Chelsea.

Concluding, Bogarde argued that Hato deserves a chance in Oranje and is ready to contribute. He urged the national coach to give him the opportunity.

The latest Studio Oranje programme now covers topics such as Ronaldo, the Ghanaian priest, Kane and the Dutch national team.