Netherlands Squad for World Cup 2026: Can the Oranje Finally Go All the Way?

Examining the players likely to represent the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in USA, Mexico, and Canada

The Netherlands have long stood as one of football’s most stylish and storied nations, producing generations of dazzling players and tactical pioneers. But despite making three World Cup finals, the Oranje have never lifted the trophy. Could the 2026 edition finally bring an end to their curse?

With a talented crop of stars emerging across Europe’s top leagues and a strong foundation in place under Ronald Koeman, the Dutch will arrive in North America with quiet confidence. Let’s dive into their squad depth, position by position, and assess their chances of glory.

Goalkeepers: Verbruggen Leads a Strong Group

The Netherlands are blessed with a solid group of goalkeepers, each offering reliability and experience. Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen is currently Koeman’s preferred option, having impressed in the Premier League with his composure and shot-stopping ability.

Behind him, Bayer Leverkusen’s Mark Flekken and Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow provide excellent backup, while Kjell Scherpen and Nick Olij round out a capable unit. Goalkeeping isn’t likely to be a concern for the Dutch in 2026.

Expected goalkeepers:

• Bart Verbruggen (Brighton)
• Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen)
• Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord)

Defenders: A World-Class Backline

Netherlands v Spain – UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Leg One

This Dutch defense could be among the strongest at the tournament. Captain Virgil van Dijk remains a colossus at the back, and he’s joined by a wealth of talent. Manchester United’s Matthijs de Ligt, Manchester City’s Nathan Ake, and Inter’s Stefan de Vrij form a rock-solid core.

Out wide, Denzel Dumfries and Jeremie Frimpong offer energy and attacking thrust on the right, while Micky van de Ven and Ian Maatsen provide pace and width on the left. The likes of Jan Paul van Hecke, Jorrel Hato, and Jurrien Timber add further depth.

Notable defenders:

• Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
• Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan)
• Nathan Ake (Manchester City)
• Jeremie Frimpong (Liverpool)
• Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)
• Micky van de Ven (Tottenham)
• Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton)
• Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

Midfielders: De Jong and Reijnders Pull the Strings

Senegal v Netherlands: Group A – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

Midfield has often been the beating heart of Dutch sides, and that’s no different this time. Frenkie de Jong will once again be the metronome in the middle of the park. With his press resistance, progressive passing, and composure, the Barcelona star will dictate the Dutch tempo.

He is likely to be paired with Tijjani Reijnders, who has blossomed at Manchester City and brings energy and creativity. Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus and Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch provide power and technical ability, while Joey Veerman, Quinten Timber, and Kenneth Taylor offer depth.

Key midfielders:

• Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona)
• Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City)
• Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus)
• Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)
• Joey Veerman (PSV)
• Quinten Timber (Feyenoord)

Attackers: Memphis and Gakpo Carry the Threat

In attack, the Netherlands have an exciting blend of experience and youthful dynamism. Memphis Depay, now tied with Robin van Persie as the all-time top scorer for the Oranje, remains a talisman. His creativity and eye for goal make him indispensable.

Cody Gakpo has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting forwards. With his sharp finishing and positional intelligence, he’s expected to be a key figure in the Dutch frontline.

They’ll be joined by Donyell Malen, Justin Kluivert, Joshua Zirkzee, and Brian Brobbey – a group full of potential and pace. Noa Lang and Wout Weghorst also remain in the picture, while Emanuel Emegha is an intriguing wildcard.

Key attackers:

• Memphis Depay (Corinthians)
• Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)
• Donyell Malen (Aston Villa)
• Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth)
• Joshua Zirkzee (Manchester United)
• Brian Brobbey (Ajax)
• Noa Lang (Napoli)
• Wout Weghorst (Ajax)

Netherlands Star Players to Watch

Several stars will be central to the Dutch hopes in 2026:

• Frenkie de Jong: The midfield maestro has been resurgent under Hansi Flick at Barcelona and will be key to the Dutch style.
• Virgil van Dijk: The defensive leader still commands immense respect and remains dominant aerially and on the ground.
• Memphis Depay: Now in a more mature role, Memphis will be looking to lead from the front.
• Cody Gakpo: If he builds on his club form, he could be one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
• Tijjani Reijnders: With his smooth passing and technical flair, Reijnders could be the link between midfield and attack.

Predicted Netherlands Starting XI for World Cup 2026

Ronald Koeman is likely to stick with a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on strong wing play and a solid defensive base.

Predicted XI (4-3-3):

• Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
• Defenders: Denzel Dumfries, Jan Paul van Hecke, Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake
• Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, Tijjani Reijnders, Ryan Gravenberch
• Forwards: Donyell Malen, Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo

With so many options available, competition for places will be fierce. But if Koeman can find the right balance and keep his stars fit, this Netherlands squad has all the ingredients to challenge for their first-ever FIFA World Cup title.

Is this the generation that finally breaks the Oranje curse? We’ll find out next summer in North America.