Valentijn Driessen has launched a scathing critique of Mexx Meerdink, the AZ Alkmaar forward, despite the 23-year-old's eye-catching goal in the Eredivisie clash against sc Heerenveen on Sunday. While the Dutch striker's long-range finish impressed many observers, the veteran journalist remains unconvinced by his overall contribution to the team.
On the Kick-Off podcast from De Telegraaf, Driessen dissected Meerdink's performance with surgical precision. The striker was virtually invisible for the opening 70 minutes before producing a moment of quality late in the match, leading Driessen to question his work ethic and commitment. "You didn't see Meerdink for the first 70 minutes. Then he really is a weakling," Driessen stated bluntly. "Then he doesn't work for the team, and he shows no aggression." Former AZ goalkeeper Wim Kieft echoed these concerns, highlighting the stark contrast between Meerdink's explosive finish and his subdued display during the bulk of the encounter.
A Long Road Ahead for International Recognition
Driessen believes Meerdink's inconsistency poses a fundamental barrier to reaching the elite level, particularly if he harbours ambitions of becoming a mainstay for the Netherlands national team. The AZ frontman may perform adequately in a domestic context when receiving limited opportunities, but that approach crumbles when facing international competition. "There has to be much more to it if he wants to become the striker for the Netherlands," Driessen warned. "You cannot be brushed off the ball so easily, and be so absent in the first hour of the match." This assessment underscores a critical gap between sporadic brilliance and the relentless intensity demanded at the highest level.
Driessen is not alone in his reservations. ESPN analyst Kenneth Perez recently expressed frustration following Meerdink's poor finishing in AZ's away fixture at Fortuna Sittard. Perez questioned the striker's finishing technique and his casual approach to chance conversion, emphasizing that elite forwards cannot afford to squander opportunities. These critiques reflect a broader pattern: Meerdink possesses undeniable technical ability but must develop greater consistency and involvement if he is to fulfil his potential.
With AZ sitting atop the Eredivisie standings on 15 points from five matches after the 3-2 victory in Friesland, Meerdink will have ample opportunities to silence his critics and demonstrate sustained improvement across 90 minutes, not just fleeting moments of genius.
