Netherlands 2026 World Cup Squad: Timber Included, Frimpong Left Out – Key Updates

Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has announced his 27-man preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with standout winger Xavi Simons (“Timber”) earning a place alongside a mix of established stars and rising talents. The exclusion of Liverpool forward Jeremie Frimpong, however, has sparked immediate debate among fans, and pundits.

The Netherlands’ World Cup preparations took a definitive turn on May 27, 2026, as manager Ronald Koeman unveiled his provisional squad for the tournament, set to begin on June 11. The list includes familiar faces such as Matthijs de Ligt, Virgil van Dijk, and Frenkie de Jong, alongside younger talents like Xavi Simons, who has been a standout performer for both club and country in recent seasons.

One of the most notable omissions is Jeremie Frimpong, the Liverpool forward who has been a consistent performer in the Premier League and a key figure in the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 campaign. His exclusion from the squad has raised eyebrows, particularly after his strong form this season, including a crucial goal in the Euro 2024 final against Spain. While Koeman has not provided a detailed explanation for the decision, reports suggest it may be linked to Frimpong’s recent fitness concerns and tactical flexibility within the squad.

The Netherlands will now focus on finalizing their squad ahead of the June 11 start of the World Cup, where they will compete in Group A alongside Ecuador, Senegal, and Qatar. The tournament, expanded to 48 teams, promises fierce competition, and Koeman’s selections will be closely scrutinized as the Dutch aim to build on their Euro 2024 triumph.

Key Inclusions and Omissions

The squad features a blend of experience and youth, with players like Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo, and Ryan Gravenberch providing creative firepower. Defensively, the backbone of de Ligt, van Dijk, and Nathan Aké ensures stability, while midfielders such as De Jong, Frenkie Schär, and Teun Koopmeiners offer tactical depth.

Xavi Simons’ inclusion is a highlight, given his versatility and goal-scoring ability. His presence alongside players like Wout Weghorst and Myron Boadu adds depth to the attacking options. However, the absence of Frimpong—who scored 10 goals in 43 appearances for the Netherlands—has left many questioning Koeman’s strategy.

Tactical and Fitness Considerations

Koeman has historically favored a pragmatic, possession-based approach, and his squad selections reflect this philosophy. The inclusion of younger players like Simons and Boadu suggests a long-term vision, while the retention of veterans like Van Dijk and De Ligt provides the necessary leadership and experience.

Fitness has been a recurring theme in Dutch football, and Frimpong’s recent struggles with consistency may have played a role in his exclusion. Koeman has emphasized the need for players to be in peak condition for the grueling World Cup schedule, and Frimpong’s omission could be a calculated move to ensure the squad’s overall fitness levels are optimized.

What Comes Next

The Netherlands will now undergo intensive training and preparation ahead of their opening match against Ecuador on June 11. Koeman is expected to make a final decision on any remaining squad spots in the coming weeks, but the current list sets the tone for the tournament.

As the World Cup draws near, all eyes will be on Koeman’s ability to balance experience with youth, while also addressing the questions surrounding Frimpong’s exclusion. The Dutch will look to build on their Euro 2024 success and prove themselves as contenders in what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.

For now, the focus remains on the squad as it stands, with fans and analysts eagerly awaiting further updates before the final whistle blows on the Netherlands’ World Cup preparations.