ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Netherlands stands for the national anthem prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Netherlands and Poland at De Kuip on September 04, 2025 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Denzel Dumfries has offered a candid insight into the contrasting dynamics of the Inter dressing room and the Netherlands national team setup, suggesting Koeman’s side need to develop the same edge and directness that characterises life at the Nerazzurri.
Speaking to Voetbal International ahead of the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign, the outgoing Inter right-back, whose move to Real Madrid is imminent, was frank about what he believes his country’s squad is currently lacking.
“We need to demand more from each other,” he said, with quotes via FCInter1908.
“This is the lesson we learned from the last European Championship, as a group we can tell each other the truth more often and more openly. And I will do that, because I am someone who takes responsibility in that sense. A little fire in the team is important.”
Dumfries calls for Netherlands to replicate Inter directness after Euro disappointment
The comparison with Inter was illuminating.
“There we can clash hard with each other, but there are so many strong personalities and firm opinions that you are practically forced to assert yourself,” Dumfries said.
“In the Dutch national team we have a very pleasant group, with a lot of spontaneity and positivity, but every now and then we could shake each other up a little more. Always with the intention of improving.”
On a more positive note, Dumfries acknowledged that communication within the Netherlands squad is developing.
“More and more players are aware that the first ball must be played well and to the right foot,” he said. “That is a positive development.”