It’s been 55 days since the Dutch national team’s semi-final loss to England in the European Championship, and they’ve just regrouped.
The focus has now shifted to the World Cup, set to take place in Canada, Mexico and the United States in two years’ time. Koeman has carefully reviewed his squad and decided to part ways with Marten de Roon (33), Georginio Wijnaldum (33) and Daley Blind (34).
Steven Bergwijn, following his move from Ajax Amsterdam to Saudi Al-Ittihad, can no longer expect a call-up from Koeman. “It’s clear that for Steven Bergwijn, at 26… sporting ambition isn’t the priority”, Koeman comments on the player’s transfer.
Koeman still has faith in Virgil van Dijk, who will turn 35 during the upcoming World Cup. He remains Koeman’s captain. The coach travelled to Liverpool to speak with Van Dijk. After the European Championship semi-final defeat, the ‘Oranje’ captain said he’d ponder his future with the national team. Koeman wanted to know if Van Dijk was still willing and able to perform at the highest level for the Dutch national team for another two years. The answer was ‘yes’, so Van Dijk is back training in Zeist.
The Dutch team will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Eindhoven on Saturday evening for a new Nations League fixture. Next Tuesday, they’ll play Germany at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam, also for the Nations League.
