Cristiano Somerville: I am very happy to participate in the World Cup, and I will continue to improve myself and contribute to the team.

With the Netherlands set to face Japan in their opening Group F match at the 2026 World Cup, West Ham United striker Cricenceo Somerwell said he hopes to seize this valuable World Cup opportunity to showcase his abilities on the world stage.  

24-year-old Criseo Somerville had an impressive 2025/26 season, making 34 appearances for West Ham United in all competitions, contributing 7 goals and 5 assists. This outstanding performance earned him his first call-up to the Dutch national team's senior squad, and he participated in the World Cup finals in North America.  

After his first call-up to the Dutch national team senior squad, Criscio Somerville quickly made his international debut. On June 3, he wore the Oranje jersey for the first time in Rotterdam's match against Algeria. He then played the full 90 minutes in New York on June 8 in a 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan, marking his second appearance for the national team.  

Speaking about being selected for Ronald Koeman's 26-man World Cup squad, Crisencio Somerville said, "Being able to stand on the World Cup stage is every boy's dream, and it was one of the important goals I set for myself before the season started. I'm 24 years old this year, and I'm at the stage where I have the opportunity to enter the national team, so I'm working hard and hoping to achieve this goal."  

“I had already made contact with the national team before the international break in March. Assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy observed my performance in West Ham's match against Bournemouth and I received positive feedback. However, unfortunately, I suffered an injury just before the international break.”  

"Head coaches usually want to understand your playing style and whether you fit the team's tactical requirements by personally observing you, so I was a little surprised to be directly included in the World Cup squad. But I also know that they have been paying close attention to my games and understanding what I can bring to the team."  

When asked about the moment he learned of his selection, Christencio Somerville revealed that he was with his family at the time. He said, "My family and I were at home, and we all found out together. We celebrated and prayed together. We were sitting on the sofa in the living room, and at that moment, all the emotions were completely released. It was a very special moment, and I am very grateful to have had this opportunity."  

Christencio Somerville previously played for various age groups of the Dutch national team, including U16, U17, U18, U19, and U21. Therefore, upon his first appearance for the senior national team, he quickly adapted to the new environment and saw many familiar teammates. He stated, "I know many of the players on the team because we've grown up together since the youth teams, and we have a very close relationship."  

“I am especially close to Quinten Timber, and our mothers are also good friends. It is a wonderful experience to be able to compete in the World Cup with these old friends and also to be teammates with some players I have played against in the Premier League.”  

"I was indeed a little nervous before my debut, but more than that, I was excited. I tried my best to showcase my strengths and stay relaxed both mentally and on the field. Experienced teammates like Van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong encouraged me before the match, helping me stay confident and play freely, and reminding me that my selection for the national team was no accident. I am very happy to play for the senior national team, and I hope to continue to improve myself and contribute to the team in the World Cup finals."  

Image source: Internet/West Ham United official website