Ruud Gullit revises Oranje verdict after Gjivai Zechiël’s impressive cameos

Ruud Gullit has admitted that Gjivai Zechiël’s first Netherlands appearances forced him to reconsider his previous doubts about the Feyenoord midfielder. Writing in his De Telegraaf column, as relayed by FCUpdate, Gullit said Zechiël looked comfortable at senior international level and brought fresh energy from the bench.

Zechiël made his Oranje debut during the recent international window and appeared as a substitute in both matches. He played 12 minutes of the 2-2 draw with Greece before receiving 31 minutes in the 2-1 victory over Serbia.

Gullit had previously considered Zechiël too lightweight for the national side following his emergence at Feyenoord. However, he was impressed by the midfielder’s willingness to turn away from opponents, play passes first time and approach his opportunities without hesitation. Gullit acknowledged that the evidence came only from brief substitute appearances, but felt the team’s play changed when Zechiël entered.

The former Netherlands star also welcomed the wider group of players given opportunities under Xavi Hernández. Joey Veerman and Kenneth Taylor returned to the squad, while Mexx Meerdink and Ruben van Bommel joined Zechiël in making their debuts. Jorrel Hato and Guus Til also received playing time after injuries ruled Frenkie de Jong and Donyell Malen out. Gullit said the window left him feeling more positive about the talent available to Oranje than he had been two months earlier.