Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has expressed disappointment over Steven Bergwijn's decision to prioritize financial gain over his sporting ambitions by completing a €25 million ($27.6m) move to Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad. Koeman stated that Bergwijn's move to Saudi Arabia at the age of 26 reflects a lack of sporting ambition, contrasting it with the circumstances of Georginio Wijnaldum's move to a Saudi club in 2023.
Koeman highlighted that Wijnaldum's move was influenced by specific circumstances at Paris Saint-Germain, whereas Bergwijn's decision appears to be solely financially driven. The manager emphasized that at 26, the primary focus should be on sporting achievements rather than financial gains, acknowledging that players have the autonomy to make their own choices.
