Xavi Hernandez Excludes Memphis Depay from First Squad
Memphis Depay, the Dutch record goalscorer, was left out of new Netherlands coach Xavi Hernandez's first squad selection for the UEFA Nations League match against Germany. Depay, who currently plays for Corinthians in Brazil, has not scored since November 2025 and has struggled with injuries and form.
Captain Virgil van Dijk, despite previously considering stepping back from international football after the Netherlands' World Cup exit, is included in the squad. Other notable absentees are veteran striker Wout Weghorst and injured Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
Xavi, who replaced Ronald Koeman on a four-year contract, is the first foreign coach of the Netherlands in 48 years and aims to restore the team's traditional attacking football philosophy. The squad features a mix of players, with half from the Premier League and only three from the Dutch Eredivisie.
Joey Veerman returns to the squad after a two-year absence.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Punch Newspapers. Read the original report below.
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