PSV midfielder Joey Veerman, despite being excluded from the Netherlands’ World Cup squad, has sparked controversy on the eve of their opening match against Japan. Veerman took out a full-page advertisement in Dutch newspaper *De Telegraaf* seemingly intended to highlight his abilities to national team coach Ronald Koeman. The move is widely interpreted as a pointed message regarding his omission from the final selection. The advertisement has generated significant discussion amongst fans and media, questioning Koeman’s decision-making. While Veerman will not participate in the tournament, his public gesture has undeniably drawn attention to the ongoing debate surrounding the Dutch squad. The timing, just one day before the crucial match, amplifies the impact of his statement. It remains to be seen how Koeman and the team will respond to the unexpected publicity.