Ronald Koeman Explains Netherlands Squad and Injury Uncertainties: 'No Surprise to Me'
On Wednesday, Ronald Koeman revealed his 26-player Netherlands squad, omitting several prominent names such as Liverpool's Jeremie Frimpong. The head coach expressed concerns over Frimpong's fitness and availability.
See the complete 26-man Netherlands selection HERE
Koeman admitted that Frimpong has struggled with injuries throughout the season, noting that during the match against Ecuador he was substituted on but had to leave the pitch shortly afterwards. The manager has instead chosen another winger from the Premier League to take his place.
Koeman explained that while Frimpong's physical condition is a concern, he has opted for Crysencio Summerville on the right wing. This decision was no surprise, as he had intended to select Summerville as early as March. The coach appreciates reliable players and highlighted Summerville's strong work ethic and ability to play effectively on the right flank.
Injuries and Uncertainties
Several players are unavailable due to injuries. Alongside Xavi Simons and Jerdy Schouten, both of whom suffered anterior cruciate ligament tears in recent months, the Dutch side will also lack Matthijs de Ligt, Emmanuel Emegha, and Stefan de Vrij.
Young midfielders Kees Smit and Luciano Valente, who had recently debuted for Oranje, were not selected. Koeman explained his decision by emphasising the need for specific midfield profiles. He stated that while he would have liked to include both, choices had to be made.
He added that without Schouten, the midfield options are assessed differently, and neither Smit nor Valente can be compared to players like De Roon or Schouten. Schouten is a genuine defensive midfielder, a reliable anchor, whereas Smit and Valente do not fit that description.
Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert has regained fitness in time, along with Memphis Depay and Jurrien Timber.
Koeman confirmed that Kluivert was selected because he has recovered well from surgery. Despite limited playing time, the coaching staff arranged for him to train for two days to assess his condition. The manager was impressed by his fitness level and noted that there are still two weeks remaining before the tournament.
Koeman admitted he would have liked Kluivert to have more minutes on the pitch. He is scheduled to start for Corinthians that evening, so the situation remains under observation. The coach reflected on his previous decision regarding Kluivert's role at Euro 2024, expressing uncertainty and suggesting he may approach things differently in future.
Jurrien Timber remains a fitness doubt for the upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday. Koeman has made contingency plans in case Timber is not available for the World Cup.
Koeman revealed that two players, Ian Maatsen and Lutsharel Geertruida, are on the standby list, which is directly related to Timber's situation. Timber was expected to train with the squad that day to assess his readiness before the weekend. Given the Champions League final on Saturday, the decision will depend on his progress.
Unexpected Returns
Instead, Koeman has chosen Atalanta's Marten de Roon, PSV's Guus Til, and Brighton's Mats Wieffer. De Roon makes his return to the Oranje squad for the first time since March 2024, while Til has only featured once for the Netherlands since June 2022. Wieffer, who was absent from the squad between June 2025 and March 2026, has been preferred over Sunderland's Lutsharel Geertruida and will play as a right back, according to the coach.
Regarding De Roon, Koeman described the conversation positively. He said that De Roon was thrilled to receive the call. The coach had previously communicated with him, so the player knew he was on the shortlist.
De Roon had anticipated not being included, but after Schouten's injury, Koeman reconsidered while evaluating other midfield options and their profiles. He emphasised that attacking midfielders cannot be compared to De Roon's role.
Koeman explained that Guus Til brings a different profile. He was selected based on his club performances, fitness, and his unique style of play, which differs from other attacking midfielders. The coach had not finalised the decision but felt positive about it for some time. He views Til primarily as a number 10 operating behind the striker, not as a forward.
Wout Weghorst was selected ahead of Burnley's Zian Flemming, even though Flemming netted 11 goals for the relegated Premier League club this season. Koeman outlined Weghorst's specific role, noting his two goals against Argentina for Oranje in the 2022 World Cup.
Koeman stated that Weghorst has a defined and valuable role in the team, and he cannot identify another player who can fulfil that function, particularly during specific moments in matches when he can be introduced.
The manager clarified that Flemming does not suit that role. He emphasised that in the team's approach to closing out matches, particularly with set pieces, Weghorst adds significant value in many situations. Koeman acknowledged that this might not be obvious to everyone, but it is a matter of opinion. For him, Flemming does not provide additional value given the existing strikers, who are different from Weghorst.
The Netherlands will play friendly matches against Algeria in Rotterdam and Uzbekistan in New York City before beginning their World Cup campaign against Japan on Saturday 14 June.