Bringing together the best talents from the Eredivisie and Premier League, this combined XI is packed with creativity, precision, and a history of world-class performances. Let’s dive into the squad and explore what makes this team one of the most formidable you could imagine.
Goalkeeper: Edwin van der Sar
Starting in goal, Edwin van der Sar is an easy choice. The legendary Dutch keeper made his name at Ajax before enjoying a stellar career in the Premier League with Manchester United. Known for his shot-stopping ability, calm composure, and leadership, Van der Sar was pivotal in both leagues. With his imposing frame and tactical awareness, he provides a rock-solid foundation at the back.
Sweeper: Ruud Gullit
Occupying a unique sweeper role is Ruud Gullit, one of the game’s most versatile and influential players. Gullit’s strength, technical skill, and football intelligence make him ideal for orchestrating the play from deep. Having honed his skills at Feyenoord and PSV in the Eredivisie before making his mark with Chelsea, Gullit combines defensive discipline with attacking instincts, making him the perfect player to marshal the backline and initiate counterattacks.
Centre-Backs: Virgil van Dijk and Jaap Stam
Virgil van Dijk’s powerful presence and composed defending have elevated him among the best in the world. Alongside him, we have Jaap Stam, another towering defender who excelled at Manchester United and in the Eredivisie. Together, they form an impenetrable wall: Van Dijk’s calm positioning complements Stam’s aggressive, hard-tackling style.
Central Midfielders: Moussa Dembélé and Christian Eriksen
The midfield boasts a perfect balance between control and creativity. Moussa Dembélé, known for his dribbling and physicality, offers a blend of defensive cover and forward momentum. His time at Fulham and Tottenham showed his ability to dominate the midfield, making him a vital player here. Alongside him is Christian Eriksen, whose vision and playmaking skills have shone in both the Eredivisie with Ajax and the Premier League with Spurs. Eriksen brings finesse, creating chances for the attackers and linking defense to offense seamlessly.
Right Wing: Arjen Robben
Speed, skill, and a lethal left foot—Arjen Robben brings all three to the right wing. Robben’s time at PSV and later dominance in the Premier League with Chelsea. He showed his knack for cutting inside and scoring stunning goals. Known for terrorizing defenses, his inclusion here adds flair and directness to the team, making him a constant threat from the flanks.
Attacking Midfielder: Dennis Bergkamp
Dennis Bergkamp’s technique, creativity, and intelligence are unrivaled. Playing just behind the forwards, Bergkamp orchestrates the play, finding spaces and setting up the attack. His ability to control and deliver in the final third made him a legend at Ajax and Arsenal, and he’s the ideal playmaker to connect the midfield with the strikers. Bergkamp’s eye for goal, combined with his passing vision, ensures he’s the heartbeat of this lineup.
Left Wing: Robin van Persie
On the left flank, Robin van Persie’s mix of agility, finishing, and flair makes him an ideal addition. His career highlights in both the Eredivisie with Feyenoord and later in the Premier League with Arsenal and Manchester United showcase his ability to score from all angles. As a left-winger, he brings not only a keen eye for goal but also the creativity and passing range to link up with his teammates and unlock defenses.
Forwards: Ruud van Nistelrooy and Luis Suárez
Upfront, we have two clinical finishers: Ruud van Nistelrooy and Luis Suárez. Van Nistelrooy’s poaching instincts and predatory awareness in the box make him one of the deadliest strikers of his time, with an enviable record in both leagues at PSV and Manchester United. Alongside him, Suárez brings his tenacity, movement, and goal-scoring prowess, honed during his time at Ajax and Liverpool. Together, they’re a nightmare for defenders, blending power, skill, and ruthless finishing.
Summary: A Team for the Ages
This combined Eredivisie and Premier League XI brings together some of the finest talents ever to play in these leagues. From Van der Sar’s composure to the defensive solidity of Van Dijk and Stam, the creativity of Eriksen and Bergkamp, and the relentless finishing of Van Nistelrooy and Suárez, this team is a testament to the incredible talent developed in the Netherlands and England. A dream team indeed, it would be a joy to watch them in action on any stage.