Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has said that he will announce the squad for FIFA World Cup later than expected, the Dutch football association declared on Wednesday.
The Oranje are drawn in Group F at the World Cup, alongside Japan, Sweden and Tunisia, and begin their campaign against the Japanese on June 15.
When was the Netherlands squad scheduled for announcement?
The Netherlands squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 was to be announced on May 25. Instead, it will now be named two days later, on May 27.
Why is Netherlands delaying squad announcement?
The squad announced is being delayed to give time to crucial national team players to recover in time for the tournament.
Players like record goalscorer Memphis Depay, Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert and Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber are among those doubtful for next month’s tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States of America.
“By taking two extra days, we can be more certain that the players we are going to select are in good shape,” Koeman said in a statement released by the football association. “Moreover, it gives us the opportunity to personally see, speak to and assess several players who are in contention for the final selection during training days on May 25, 26 and 27.
“This has no further impact on our original schedule, as preparation with the complete group starts on Saturday, May 30. I would therefore like to utilise the extra time this offers to take all aspects into account in the choices we make regarding the final selection,” he added.
The Dutch fly to the United States on June 4 and in the run-up to their first World Cup match against Japan on June 14 in Dallas. They will play friendly matches against fellow finalists Algeria on June 3 in Rotterdam and Uzbekistan on June 8 in New York.
(With inputs from
Published on May 14, 2026