Malen Pre-Match: I’m Effective on the Right, Bergwijn Has Best Skills, Frenkie is Fastest

On July 6th, in the quarterfinals of the Euros, the Netherlands is set to face Turkey, and Dutch forward Donyell Malen gives a pre-match interview.

About Playing as a Right Winger

Malen: “That was a tactical change we made at halftime. We noticed that their number six had only one defensive player, who couldn’t cover both of us. So I cut inside from the right constantly, moving towards the middle, and it disrupted their defense effectively.”

About Losing to Austria

Malen: “It was really disappointing. After the game, we sat down in the locker room and had an honest discussion about what needed improvement. We had time to reflect and address our shortcomings, and we’ve seen significant progress since then.”

About Scoring a Brace in the Closing Minutes

Malen: “I always stay ready for shooting opportunities. I’m very focused on that aspect, and that’s my style of play. Goals and assists are what I do best. Being closer to the goal allows me to have a bigger impact.”

About Fan Support

Malen: “With Dortmund, we reached the Champions League final, and the fans were amazing. But this time, it’s different – a German stadium filled with Dutch fans in orange, it’s emotional.”

About Turkey

Malen: “They played fantastically against Austria. Turkey is not an easy team to face; they’re passionate, and their fans are enthusiastic.”

In a fun interaction with the journalist, when Malen hears these attributes, which teammates does he associate them with?

• Skills — Malen: “Bergwijn.”
• Speed — Malen: “Frenkie.”
• Passing — Malen: “Wilmans.”
• Willpower — Malen: “Dumfries.”
• Heading — Malen: “Van Dijk.”
• Finishing — Malen: “Wout Weghorst.”
• Vision — Malen: “Ake.”
• Dribbling — Malen: “Myself!”