Ronald Koeman announced this Wednesday the list of 26 players called up by Holanda for Copa of Mundo 2026. The coach confirmed the presence of Memphis Depay as the main name of the attack. The Corinthians player has recovered from an injury to his right thigh and will compete in his third Copa of Mundo.
The decision took place on the morning of May 27th. Koeman organized the group based on the athletes’ recent form and tactical needs for the group stage. Holanda seeks to advance consistently in the tournament that will be played in three countries.
Memphis Depay leads Dutch attack after recovery
The 32-year-old striker joined the squad despite his recent physical problem. Ele is the best scorer in the history of the Dutch national team. Depay has experience in previous World Cups and should occupy a central position in the offensive scheme.
Koeman followed his progress in training and games through Corinthians. The technical committee considered the player’s history decisive for inclusion. Outros attackers complete the options in the sector.
- Cody Gakpo
- Brian Brobbey
- Donyell Malen
- Crysencio Summerville
- Noa Lang
- Wout Weghorst
The offensive group mixes speed and physical presence. Depay must act as a reference, with support from teammates in quick transitions.
Ausências due to injury alters Dutch midfield
Xavi Simons, from Tottenham, and Jerdy Schouten, from PSV, were left out due to serious knee injuries. The declines forced Koeman to adjust the sector. The coach called names with different characteristics to fill the vacancies.
Frenkie of Jong appears as the main reference in the medium. Ele is supported by Tijjani Reijnders, Ryan Gravenberch and Teun Koopmeiners. The defense maintains a solid foundation with Virgil van Dijk as captain.
The coach prioritized balance. The absence of two creative midfielders requires more responsibility from the midfielders in releasing the ball.
Grupo F pits Holanda against Japão Suécia and Tunísia
The orange selection fell into Grupo F alongside Japão, Suécia and Tunísia. The first game takes place on June 14th against Japão. The calendar foresees clashes in stadiums in Estados Unidos and México.
Holanda is the favorite to top the bracket. The moderate level of the opponents allows planning to advance to the round of 16. Ainda thus, Koeman avoided excessive statements about goals.
The group stage begins with pressure for a positive result right from the start. Japão offers speed and tactical organization. Suécia and Tunísia have different physical characteristics.
Elenco mixes experience and youth in all positions
The published list includes 26 names distributed by sectors. Goleiros, defenders, midfielders and attackers received specific calls.
Goleiros:
- Bart Verbruggen
- Mark Flekken
- Robin Roefs
Defensores:
- Denzel Dumfries
- Virgil from Dijk
- Nathan Aké
- Jurriën Timber
- Micky van de Ven
- Jorrel Hato
- Quinten Timber
Meio-campers:
- Frenkie from Jong
- Tijjani Reijnders
- Ryan Gravenberch
- Teun Koopmeiners
- Marten from Roon
- Quinten Timber
- Guus Til
Atacantes:
- Memphis Depay
- Cody Gakpo
- Donyell Malen
- Crysencio Summerville
- Noa Lang
- Wout Weghorst
- Brian Brobbey
The defense has several players playing in major European leagues. The midfield has high technical quality. The attack relies on Depay’s form to create constant danger.
Koeman worked on the call with a focus on immediate competitiveness. The cast travels with time for collective training before the premiere.
Dutch Preparação aims for consistent performance in expanded tournament
Copa of Mundo 2026 will have 48 selections. Holanda seeks to repeat or surpass fourth place in 2022. The coach assembled a group with a balance between veterans and promises.
Memphis Depay arrives as an emotional and technical piece. Seu historic goal and leadership on the field weigh in on the choice. His physical recovery will be monitored in the first days of concentration.
The Dutch technical committee plans tactical tests in the coming weeks. The initial focus is on adapting to the time zone and stadiums in the host cities.
This Wednesday’s announcement ends the period of speculation about cuts and surprises. Koeman opted for names known to fans and the press.