De Vrij: The Weight of Responsibility
Stefan de Vrij, the seasoned center-back for Inter Milan, acknowledges that his team now carries a significant burden. With Inter being the sole remaining Italian side in the UEFA Champions League after the eliminations of Juventus, Atalanta, and Milan, the sense of responsibility has grown. In an interview at a recent event, de Vrij expressed his empathy for the teams that were knocked out. “We know that we have more responsibility following the elimination of the other Italian teams from the Champions League, and I am sincerely sorry for those who went out,” he shared with Tuttomercatoweb. This sentiment reflects the pressure and pride he feels as Inter’s performance will now be a direct representation of Italy’s standing in European football.
The Champions League Draw
The draw for the Round of 16 of the Champions League is set to take place on Friday, and Inter is aware of their potential opponents. The Nerazzurri will face either Feyenoord or PSV Eindhoven, the teams that sent Milan and Juventus packing respectively. De Vrij, who has a personal connection to Dutch football, is excited about the prospect of facing a Dutch side. “On a purely personal level, I am happy to face a Dutch opponent. Both PSV and Feyenoord are very strong teams,” he commented. This matchup holds both a nostalgic and challenging aspect, as de Vrij’s familiarity with the Dutch style of play could prove advantageous or challenging.
Feyenoord’s Impact on de Vrij’s Career
The 33-year-old de Vrij’s journey through the Feyenoord youth academy played a crucial role in his development as a footballer. He honed his skills and learned the fundamentals of the game in Rotterdam before making the move to Italy in 2014 to join Lazio. His time with Feyenoord gave him a solid foundation in technique, which he believes is a hallmark of Dutch football. “The Dutch youth academies are excellent and there is a much bigger focus on technique in our football,” he noted. This technical training laid the groundwork for his successful career, which has seen him become a stalwart for Inter Milan and the Netherlands national team.
The Italian Influence
Upon arriving in Italy, de Vrij was quickly immersed in the tactical sophistication of Serie A, which he found to be a whole new world compared to the technical focus of Dutch football. “Since coming to Italy, I have really improved in terms of tactical understanding, which is a whole other world to the one we learn,” he stated. This blend of technical skill and tactical acumen has made de Vrij a formidable defender over the years. His ability to read the game and make crucial interventions has become a cornerstone of Inter’s defensive strategy, contributing to their strong performance in the Champions League.
Career Milestones and Contributions
De Vrij’s career in Serie A has been nothing short of impressive. Over the years, he has made 290 appearances in the league, scoring 19 goals and providing six assists. These statistics underscore his consistency and reliability, not just as a defender but as a valuable asset to his team. His contributions extend beyond the pitch, as he has become a leader both in the dressing room and on the field, embodying the spirit and determination that Inter fans have come to admire. His role in the team’s success is a testament to his adaptability and continuous improvement, qualities that have made him a fan favorite and a key player for Inter.
Looking Forward with Intensity
As Inter prepares for their upcoming Champions League encounter, de Vrij’s experience and leadership will be crucial. The team understands the importance of their role as the last Italian outfit standing and is determined to make the most of this opportunity. De Vrij’s familiarity with Dutch football, combined with his tactical expertise, could provide a significant edge in the Round of 16 match. However, he remains respectful of the challenge ahead, acknowledging the strength of both Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven. “We will be ready and focused, no matter who we face. It’s an honor to represent Inter, and we will give it our all,” he concluded. This attitude reflects the mindset of a player who is both proud of his roots and fully committed to his current club’s success.
