Gravenberch: Our Only Goal Is to Win the World Cup

Reuters Sports, May 24 — Netherlands international midfielder Ryan Gravenberch recently gave an interview to FIFA’s official media channels, discussing captain Virgil van Dijk, the team’s ambitions for this World Cup, and more.

About the World Cup
“We have set ambitious goals for this World Cup. We want to go further than we did four years ago, and we have to prove that. Our only objective is to win the World Cup. We are here to win, and the quality of the squad is enough to make that dream possible. Of course, every match must be earned, and the journey will be difficult, but we will give everything. I am full of confidence in this team.”

“Of course I enjoy looking back at the past, and I think every football fan enjoys doing that too. For Dutch football, that final was an incredible match, almost like climbing a mountain. In the end, Argentina smiled last and became the new world champions. It hurt because we were so close, but it also gave the younger players extra motivation to achieve our goal this time.”

“This is the biggest sporting event in the world. Representing the national team here is an amazing feeling, and I’m really looking forward to it. It’s the highest achievement you can reach. This will be my second World Cup. The previous one was already special, and the feeling of everyone coming together every four years to fight side by side is incredible. Being part of such a great team and representing the Netherlands on the world stage makes me extremely proud.”

“What I’ve learned is that when you compete, you compete to win. That’s the reality of professional sport — if you don’t win, you go home. It’s a valuable lesson. I’ve learned to enjoy the matches, stay connected with teammates and fans, and understand that every little detail must be perfect if you want to keep progressing. That’s what we’ve learned, and we’ll bring those lessons into this tournament.”

“I still remember the 2010 final — that defeat was heartbreaking. I was very young then, but I remember the whole country being in tears. I was on holiday in southern France with my family, watching by the pool. Those moments showed just how powerful football can be in creating emotions. The Netherlands has always been a football-crazy nation.”

“I think my strengths on the pitch are power, aggression, and intensity. As I’ve grown older, I understand myself better, but those qualities have always been there. I always want to win, I always want to lead the battle, and I try to inspire my teammates to do the same. That’s just who I am. I don’t overthink it — it comes naturally. Those qualities will never disappear.”

“Some players are exceptional on the ball, while others bring different skills. I believe our team is very balanced. When it comes to injecting energy and intensity into the game, I think that’s one of my strengths, and it’s also part of the Dutch football identity. We are very good at moving the ball and passing to the right player. That is something deeply rooted in our academy system and our style of play.”

“Still, I do believe the Netherlands can learn certain things from the United States in terms of aggression and passion. We can improve in those areas. But at the same time, Dutch football is built around passing, choosing the right moments, and creating space for teammates. If we get all of those elements right, then we can become a truly outstanding Dutch side.”

About Virgil van Dijk
“Van Dijk is our leader, and I admire him greatly. He is fully focused in every match and sets the standard for the whole team. He leads by example, keeps everyone concentrated, and gives confidence to the squad. He is our captain, and that belief spreads throughout the team.”

About the Fans
“Dutch football fans are always full of passion and energy, so I hope this summer will be the same. In every tournament we’ve played, the support from Dutch fans has been incredible. Even though the distance is far, the connection between us and the supporters is amazing. I hope they continue following us everywhere. For people in the United States, seeing a sea of orange everywhere would be fantastic. We want to bring that orange atmosphere to America.”