Xavi Hernandez names first Netherlands squad for Nations League fixtures

Xavi Hernandez has named his first Netherlands squad since taking charge, including first call-ups for Feyenoord midfielder Gjivai Zechiel and PSV winger Ruben van Bommel.

The Netherlands will face Germany, Serbia and Greece in the Nations League, with Xavi’s first match in charge coming against Germany. The fixture will also mark Jurgen Klopp’s first game as Germany manager.

Xavi succeeded Ronald Koeman, who was dismissed after the Netherlands’ disappointing campaign at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Netherlands were eliminated in the last 32 by Morocco, losing on penalties after the match ended 1-1.

Netherlands squad

Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, Sunderland’s Robin Roefs and Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Mark Flekken have been selected.

The defensive group is made up of Denzel Dumfries of Real Madrid, Liverpool’s Jeremie Frimpong, PSV defender Lutsharel Geertruida, Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, Tottenham’s Jan Paul van Hecke and Micky van de Ven, Fenerbahce’s Nathan Ake and Chelsea defender Jorrel Hato.

In midfield, Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch is joined by Tijjani Reijnders of Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah, Borussia Dortmund’s Joey Veerman, Crystal Palace midfielder Quinten Timber, Juventus player Teun Koopmeiners, Lazio’s Kenneth Taylor, Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert and Feyenoord debutant Gjivai Zechiel.

The forwards selected are Al-Hilal’s Crysencio Summerville, Roma’s Donyell Malen, Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey, Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, Napoli winger Noa Lang and PSV’s Ruben van Bommel.

Memphis Depay, who plays for Corinthians, was left out of the squad, along with Twente forward Wout Weghorst, Roma midfielder Marten de Roon, Panathinaikos defender Stefan de Vrij and PSV midfielder Guus Til.

The squad represents the beginning of Xavi Hernandez’s tenure with the Netherlands, with the former Spain international now preparing for his opening Nations League fixtures against Germany, Serbia and Greece.