Scouting intel
compiled 2026-06-11 · SonarSquad value
€754.2m
Coach
Ronald Koeman
Form (last 5)
WWDWW
Key players
Virgil van DijkCB · Defensive leader, elite aerial presence€25m
Frenkie de JongCM · Press-resistant playmaker, controls tempo€60m
Xavi SimonsAM/W · Creative outlet, carries and creates chances€80m
Cody GakpoLW/CF · Direct left-sided threat, strong finisher€55m
Shape: Koeman predominantly uses a 4-3-3 that can shift into a 3-4-2-1 in possession, with full-backs providing width and the left winger attacking the half-space. The build-up is methodical through De Jong, with vertical switches toward the wide forwards and aggressive counter-pressing after loss.
Numbers: In qualifying they produced a high non-penalty xG per game driven by volume of shots from wide-to-central combinations, while allowing relatively few clear-cut chances against.[2] Their defensive xG against was among the stronger European qualifiers, reflecting cohesive pressing and van Dijk’s box dominance.[2]
Key updates
- ▸Jurriën Timber was initially selected for the World Cup but withdrew injured and was replaced by Lutsharel Geertruida on 8 June.[5]
- ▸Ronald Koeman continues as head coach into the 2026 World Cup, overseeing a largely settled core group.[5][6]
- ▸Memphis Depay, the country’s all-time top scorer, is in the World Cup squad and remains a key attacking reference.[6]
- ▸Netherlands arrive at the tournament after an unbeaten qualifying campaign, scoring 27 goals in eight matches.[2]
Sources: Netherlands – National team profile and squad values · The most valuable national teams – Netherlands squad value · Netherlands national football team – 2026 World Cup squad and coach · Netherlands name FIFA World Cup 2026 squad · FIFA World Cup 2026: Netherlands squad, key stats and schedule