Xavi names first Netherlands squad with Memphis Depay and three veterans omitted

Xavi Hernandez has left out Memphis Depay, Wout Weghorst, Marten de Roon and Stefan de Vrij from his first Netherlands squad since becoming head coach.

The former Barcelona manager has selected his squad for the Netherlands’ 3 Nations League fixtures during the next international break. His side will host Germany before travelling to face Serbia and Greece.

The appointment represents Xavi’s first role in international football after his spell in charge of Barcelona. The Spanish coach has received strong backing from the Royal Dutch Football Association, which hopes his project can rebuild the national team and improve its performances ahead of future competitions.

Xavi’s opening selection signals a willingness to refresh the squad, with several experienced players overlooked while opportunities have been handed to younger footballers. Kees Smit is also absent, despite being regarded as a player who could have an important role in the Netherlands’ future.

One of the most notable inclusions is Robin van Bommel, the son of Mark van Bommel, the current Belgium manager. Xavi is expected to combine emerging talent with established players as he seeks to create a competitive side while maintaining a balance between renewal and continuity.

Netherlands squad

Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton & Hove Albion), Robin Roefs (Sunderland), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen).

Defenders: Lutsharel Geertruida (PSV Eindhoven), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Jeremie Frimpong (Liverpool), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Nathan Ake (Fenerbahce), Jan Paul van Hecke (Tottenham Hotspur), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur), Denzel Dumfries (Real Madrid), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea).

Midfielders: Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Tijjani Reijnders (Al-Qadsiah), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Quinten Timber (Crystal Palace), Joey Veerman (Borussia Dortmund), Kenneth Taylor (Lazio), Jivai Zechiel (Feyenoord).

Forwards: Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Noa Lang (Napoli), Donyell Malen (Roma), Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Crysencio Summerville (Al-Hilal), Robin van Bommel (PSV Eindhoven).

Xavi’s first competitive test will come at home against Germany. He will then take the Netherlands to Serbia and Greece, giving him 3 matches in which to introduce his ideas, assess his selected players and establish the team’s identity under his leadership.

The squad features prominent names across the pitch but also makes clear that a number of experienced internationals are no longer part of Xavi’s initial plans. The performances in those Nations League fixtures will provide the first indication of whether his choices can move the Netherlands towards its objectives.