Former Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart praised Inter Milan veteran defender Stefan de Vrij for his reliability. 

Speaking to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf via FCInterNews, Van der Vaart waxed lyrical about his compatriot. 

Despite occasional ups and downs, Stefan de Vrij has been ever-present for the Nerazzurri in the past seven years.

Indeed, the 33-year-old joined the club from Lazio in 2018 and has since helped Inter win seven major domestic titles.

Furthermore, he was part of the team that lost two Champions League finals. 

However, this could be De Vrij’s last season at San Siro.

With his contract expiring in 2026 and the club reluctant to renew his contract, the center-back could be on his way out next June.

In the meantime, Cristian Chivu will likely continue to rely on De Vrij as a dependable defensive option. 

Van der Vaart Waxes Lyrical About Inter Milan Star Stefan de Vrij

Stefan de Vrij Inter Milan
VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Stefan de Vrij of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team fourth goal during the Serie A match between Verona and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 23, 2024 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

De Vrij has been a bit-part player in Chivu’s system this season, making just five appearances in all competitions.

Indeed, he has only made two Serie A starts, last featuring in a league match at the start of October.

Therefore, it’s unsurprising that Dutch boss Ronald Koeman left him out of his squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

However, Van der Vaart holds the former Lazio star in high esteem. 

“He’s a player you can bring on in a semi‑final with a 2‑1 lead,” Van der Vaart said. “In the air, he can clear those four balls from the goal, and he always stays calm. 

“I’ve come to appreciate him immensely.

“Usually, I prefer a player with more style, but he doesn’t make mistakes.

“He always plays the right pass and makes passes between the lines. He’s a player I value a lot.”

Allowed to stay at Appiano Gentile during the international break, De Vrij will stake a claim for a starting berth against AC Milan.