Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has committed his future to the national team until at least the 2026 World Cup. Coach Ronald Koeman confirmed the news on Tuesday, revealing a face-to-face meeting with Van Dijk in Liverpool to secure his commitment. Koeman expressed his confidence in Van Dijk’s continued dedication to the team despite a less-than-stellar performance at the recent European Championship. He acknowledged Van Dijk’s leadership but suggested that his focus on others might have negatively impacted his own performance.
Meanwhile, Koeman has shut the door on striker Steven Bergwijn following his transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Bergwijn’s recent performances at Ajax Amsterdam and the move to Saudi Arabia have seemingly led to his exclusion from the national team.
Koeman also revealed that he is not considering midfielders Marten de Roon and Georginio Wijnaldum for future selections, indicating a shift in his squad plans. The coach is actively exploring other options for midfield roles, particularly with Daley Blind’s recent retirement from international football.
The absence of star forward Memphis Depay from the current squad is due to his current clubless status. Depay, who left Atletico Madrid earlier this year, is reportedly in talks with Sevilla but remains without a team. Koeman emphasized that Depay’s lack of game time makes him ineligible for the national team at this time, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
Despite the changes, the Dutch team is preparing for their upcoming UEFA Nations League clash against Bosnia & Herzegovina in Eindhoven on Saturday, followed by a match against Germany in Amsterdam next Tuesday.
