Koeman Ushers in New Era for Dutch National Team
Ronald Koeman, the manager of the Dutch men’s national football team, has made significant changes to his squad ahead of the Nations League home matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Germany in September. In a bold move, Koeman has opted to leave out veterans Memphis Depay, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Marten de Roon from his provisional 35-man selection, signaling a fresh start for the team following the European Championship.
Depay’s National Team Future on Hold
Koeman informed Memphis Depay that he must secure a new club after leaving Atlético Madrid before being considered for a return to the national team. This decision reflects Koeman’s intention to rejuvenate the squad with younger talent as he prepares for the upcoming World Cup in two years.
Veterans Out, New Faces In
In addition to Depay, Koeman also spoke with Wijnaldum and De Roon, explaining his decision to exclude them in favor of introducing new players. The manager emphasized that the changes are part of a broader strategy to build a competitive team for both the Nations League and the World Cup. The provisional squad includes several new faces, such as Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), and Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth).
Daley Blind Retires from International Football
Daley Blind, a stalwart of the Dutch team with 108 international caps, announced his retirement from international football, further underscoring the transitional phase the team is undergoing. Frenkie de Jong, still recovering from an ankle injury, was also left out of the squad.
Final Squad Announcement and Upcoming Matches
Koeman will finalize his squad on August 30. The Dutch team is set to kick off their Nations League campaign on September 7 against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Eindhoven, followed by a clash with Germany at the Johan Cruijff ArenA three days later. Hungary rounds out the group in this fourth edition of the Nations League.