Mexx Meerdink Enlists Roy Makaay to Boost Dutch National Team Chances
Mexx Meerdink is pulling out all the stops to earn a recall to the Netherlands national team—and he’s brought in one of the country’s most lethal finishers to help him do it. The 25-year-old AZ Alkmaar striker has started working with legendary Dutch forward Roy Makaay, hoping the former Bayern Munich and Deportivo star can sharpen his instincts in front of goal.
Meerdink hasn’t worn an Oranje shirt since a 2022 friendly against Mexico, and his path back has been complicated by injuries and stiff competition for places. But now fully fit and determined, he’s seeking every edge he can get. His collaboration with Makaay isn’t just symbolic—it’s tactical, practical, and already underway.
A Mentor with a Golden Touch
Roy Makaay, nicknamed ‘Das Phantom’ for his ghost-like ability to appear in scoring positions, scored over 200 career goals across top European leagues. His reputation as a clinical finisher makes him the ideal coach for a young striker looking to convert more chances into goals. Meerdink reached out personally, and Makaay agreed to mentor him.
So far, their sessions have included film study and on-field technique work. One early tip from Makaay: keep your eyes locked on the goalkeeper longer during one-on-one situations. It sounds simple, but that split-second focus can mean the difference between a saved shot and a goal.
Meerdink told Dutch media: “I firmly believe Roy can help me. He’s experienced everything at the highest level… I really appreciate that he wants to help me; it shows what a lovely man he is.”
Timing Matters—Big Matches Ahead
This partnership comes at a crucial moment. AZ Alkmaar has key fixtures looming, including a UEFA Conference League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk on April 16, 2026. Meerdink knows strong club performances are his best ticket back into Ronald Koeman’s national team plans—especially with Euro qualifiers approaching.
He’s not just training harder; he’s training smarter. By analyzing his own match footage with Makaay, he’s identifying subtle flaws in positioning and movement that might be costing him goals. “Roy will point out what I could perhaps do better and what my strengths are,” Meerdink said. “His tips will help me improve.”
AZ clearly believes in his future—the club recently extended his contract through 2030. In 76 official appearances, he’s netted 21 goals and added 3 assists, solid numbers for a developing forward in a competitive Eredivisie side.
What This Means for His International Future
The Dutch national team is stacked with attacking talent—players like Cody Gakpo, Memphis Depay, and emerging stars like Brian Brobbey. Breaking back in won’t be easy, especially without consistent goal output at club level.
But Meerdink’s proactive move shows serious ambition. Rather than waiting for a call-up, he’s building a case through deliberate skill development. If he starts converting half-chances into goals consistently—particularly in high-stakes European matches—Koeman may find it hard to ignore him.
Here’s what stands out about his approach:
- Targeted mentorship: Not just any coach—Makaay is a proven elite finisher.
- Focus on细节: Small technical tweaks (like eye discipline) can yield big results.
- Urgency tied to schedule: With Euro qualifiers on the horizon, timing is everything.
- Club form as leverage: Strong showings vs. Shakhtar could be a springboard.
- Long-term mindset: His 2030 contract shows AZ sees him as central to their future.
Key Takeaways
- Mexx Meerdink has begun working with Dutch legend Roy Makaay to refine his finishing.
- The goal is to boost his chances of a Netherlands national team recall ahead of Euro qualifiers.
- Early advice includes maintaining visual contact with the goalkeeper during breakaways.
- Upcoming Conference League matches offer a high-visibility platform to showcase improvement.
- While no guarantees exist, this proactive step signals serious commitment to elite performance.
Meerdink’s story isn’t about overnight transformation—it’s about incremental gains guided by someone who’s been there. Whether it leads to an Oranje return remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: he’s leaving nothing to chance.
— Editorial Team
