Post by : Rohit Dhiman

New Netherlands coach Xavi Hernandez has made his first major selection decisions since taking charge of the national team. Captain Virgil van Dijk has decided to continue his international career, while Memphis Depay has been left out of the 26-man squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures. The decision on Van Dijk had been closely watched after the defender said last month that he would consider his international future following discussions with the new coach. The Liverpool defender has now chosen to remain available for the Netherlands. For Depay, the situation is different. The 32-year-old forward, who is the country's leading scorer, has not been selected. He made only substitute appearances during the 2026 World Cup and finished the tournament with his national-team tally still standing at 55 goals. His latest omission could mark a significant moment in his international career after 112 appearances for the Netherlands.

Van Dijk Decides to Continue International Career

The Netherlands will continue to rely on Van Dijk's experience as Xavi begins a new chapter with the national side. The defender had previously indicated that he would take time to assess his future after the World Cup. His decision to continue means the Netherlands retain one of their most experienced players as they prepare for a demanding international schedule. Van Dijk remains one of the central figures in the Dutch defence and has also carried the captain's armband. His inclusion gives Xavi an experienced option while the coach begins to introduce his own ideas and personnel into the squad. The decision also means that the new coach will have an established leader available during his first competitive matches in charge.

Memphis Depay Left Out After World Cup Role

Depay's omission is one of the most notable decisions from Xavi's first selection. The forward entered the 2026 World Cup as the Netherlands' record international goalscorer, having scored 55 times for his country. However, he played only as a substitute during the tournament. At 32, Depay has already made 112 appearances for the Netherlands. Although his exclusion could raise questions about what comes next for him internationally, the squad announcement itself does not confirm his retirement. For Xavi, the decision creates an opportunity to assess other attacking options as he begins rebuilding and reshaping the national side following the World Cup.

New Faces Receive Their First Opportunity

Xavi has also used his first squad to introduce two players to the senior national team. Ruben van Bommel and Gjivai Zechiel have received their first call-ups. Their inclusion gives the new coach an opportunity to evaluate younger options alongside established international players. The selection of new players is part of a wider change in the squad, with several players returning after missing the World Cup and others being left out. Midfielder Joey Veerman has also returned to the Netherlands squad. His recall adds another option in midfield as Xavi prepares for four Nations League matches during an extended international window.

Frenkie de Jong Remains Unavailable

Xavi will not have Frenkie de Jong available for the upcoming fixtures. The midfielder is still recovering from the knee injury he suffered during the World Cup. His absence is significant for a team that has traditionally relied on his ability to control possession and move the ball through midfield. However, Xavi has several other midfield options available, including Ryan Gravenberch, Teun Koopmeiners, Tijjani Reijnders, Kenneth Taylor, Quinten Timber and Joey Veerman. The new coach will therefore have to manage the midfield without one of the Netherlands' most recognised players while also integrating returning and newly selected players.

Several Experienced Players Miss Out

Depay is not the only established name missing from the 26-man squad. Marten de Roon, Wout Weghorst and Guus Til have also not been selected. Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Mats Wieffer is unavailable because of injury. At the same time, Xavi has recalled several players who were absent from the World Cup squad. Jeremie Frimpong, Kenneth Taylor and Jurrien Timber are among those returning to the national team. The combination of returning players, new call-ups and notable omissions shows the range of changes being made as Xavi begins his tenure.

Netherlands Prepare for Four Nations League Matches

Xavi's first competitive assignment will come in the Nations League, where the Netherlands are scheduled to face Germany, Greece and Serbia. The Dutch team will play four matches during the extended three-week international window. Germany and Greece are among the opponents, while Serbia will be faced twice. These fixtures will give Xavi his first opportunity to work with the squad in competitive matches and test his approach against different opponents. The Netherlands will enter the new campaign with a mixture of experienced players and fresh selections, with Van Dijk providing leadership at the back and new players such as Van Bommel and Zechiel receiving their first opportunity at senior international level.

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What the New Selection Means for the Netherlands

Xavi's first squad provides an early indication of the direction he wants to take the Netherlands after the 2026 World Cup. The coach has retained key figures such as Van Dijk while opening the door for younger players. The return of Veerman, Frimpong, Taylor and Timber also adds depth to the squad. Meanwhile, the absence of Depay, De Roon, Weghorst and Til represents a significant change from previous selections. Injuries are another factor, particularly in the case of De Jong and Wieffer. The Netherlands will therefore begin the new era with a squad combining experience, returning players and first-time international selections.

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