The Bournemouth attacker has endured an uneven international career, with opportunities limited despite his experience across several major European leagues. Speaking to Voetbal International, he reflected on the path he has taken and his desire to make a greater impact for his country.
"That's far too few," Kluivert said when discussing his international appearances.
The former Ajax player made his senior debut in 2018, but his progress with the national team has not followed the trajectory he imagined at the time.
"In 2018, I had imagined things differently. But I'm still here. Everyone follows their own path. Some are easier than others," he said.
Kluivert was also candid about the difficulties he has encountered throughout his career.
"I haven't followed the ideal path. But there's something beautiful about that too: you don't have to follow the ideal path to achieve something."
The 27-year-old is still waiting to score his first goal for the Netherlands, despite having come close on several occasions.
He recalled one particular opportunity in a home international against Malta in Groningen, when he failed to convert a good cross.
"I shot over after a good cross. At the time I thought: 'What is this?' So yes, it is something I really want," he said.
Kluivert also explained why he has yet to take a penalty for the national team, recalling an occasion when he was keen to step forward but accepted that Memphis Depay remained the designated taker.
"I remember an international when we got a penalty and I obviously wanted to take it too. But we have a list, and Memphis is the first penalty taker when he's there, so he was absolutely right to take it himself," he said.
Kluivert has returned to the Netherlands squad under new head coach Xavi Hernández after missing the previous international window through injury.
The Bournemouth player will be hoping to use the opportunity to establish himself in the new coach's plans and finally add an international goal to his record.
For a player who made his debut with such high expectations, the ambition to become a more regular presence for the Netherlands remains strong.