Predicting the Netherlands’ 2026 World Cup squad | OneFootball

The 2022 World Cup is over, the Netherlands went out on penalties in the quarter-finals. Looking ahead to 2026, a provisional 26-man squad is mapped out, if Oranje qualify.

According to Football Oranje, goalkeeper is the trickiest call, with Justin Bijlow and Andries Noppert the front-runners. Sem Westerveld is named as the third option.

At right-back, Lutsharel Geertruida and Jeremie Frimpong get the nod, with Denzel Dumfries possibly overlooked if a back four returns. On the left, Tyrell Malacia and Owen Wijndal are backed to take over from Daley Blind.

Centre-back remains stacked. Virgil van Dijk, Matthijs de Ligt, Nathan Ake, Jurrien Timber and Sven Botman are the five picks, with van Dijk’s inclusion dependent on his level at 35.

In midfield, Frenkie de Jong is a lock, alongside Silvano Vos, Ryan Gravenberch, Xavi Simons, Joey Veerman and Quinten Timber. Several current options could miss out by then.

Wide areas are flagged as a concern, yet Arnaut Danjuma and Cody Gakpo supply experience. Jaden Slory and Isaac Babadi are tipped as potential breakout wingers.

Up front, Memphis Depay leads the line if fit, with Brian Brobbey and Myron Boadu offering power and pace. Teenage finisher Julian Rijkhoff is the long-range pick.

All choices stay conditional on form, fitness and development, but the blend skews young with scope to grow by 2026.

Source: Football Oranje