Frenkie de Jong is set to play a key role in the Netherlands' 2026 World Cup campaign, after the team qualified with an unbeaten record in UEFA Group G.
What are the Netherlands' chances?
The Netherlands football team, ranked eighth in the world, have a history of near misses and three World Cup final defeats.
They reached the semi-finals at Euro 2024, where England narrowly beat them 2-1 in Dortmund.
Who is in the Netherlands squad?
The final 26-man squad, announced by Ronald Koeman on 27 May 2026, includes Frenkie de Jong, Virgil van Dijk, and Memphis Depay.
The squad has a strong Premier League presence, with 15 of the 26 players based in English football.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the team?
The midfield axis of Ryan Gravenberch and Frenkie de Jong gives the Netherlands control across the pitch.
However, the loss of Xavi Simons to an ACL injury in April is a big blow, and defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Stefan de Vrij are also missing through injury.
The team's best playing XI is expected to be a 4-3-3 formation, with Verbruggen in goal and a strong defensive line.
Tournament prediction
The Netherlands may not have the attacking firepower of previous generations, but they possess vast quality and experience in defence and midfield, making them Group F favourites.
They will face Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia in the group stage, and are expected to progress to the knockout stages.
The Netherlands took eventual champions Argentina to penalties in the quarter-finals at the 2022 World Cup.
Frenkie de Jong will be key to the team's success, with his creative playmaking and vision on the pitch.
The Netherlands' first match is on 14 June 2026, and they will be looking to make a strong start to the tournament.