If you’re wondering which Dutch stars are ready to don the orange jersey this year, you’re in the right place. The Netherlands squad has been tweaked after the latest qualifiers, and the changes give us a fresh mix of experience and youth. Below you’ll find the names you need to remember, how they’re performing, and the tactics the coach is likely to use.
At the heart of the team sits Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool centre‑back still brings composure and aerial power, and he’s been a rock for the Netherlands defensive line. Next to him, Matthijs de Ligt adds speed and the ability to step out of defence to start attacks.
In midfield, Frenkie de Jong remains the engine. His passing range lets the team switch from defence to attack in a split second. If he’s not on the pitch, Ryan Gravenberch steps in, offering a more direct run‑through style that can catch opponents off‑guard.
Up front, the strike partnership of Memphis Depay and Luuk de Jong continues to be the main threat. Depay’s flair and movement create space for de Jong, who uses his height to win aerial duels and finish crosses. A younger option, Sébastien Haller, has earned a call‑up after impressive form in the French league, adding another goal‑scoring avenue.
Don’t overlook the wing‑backs either. Noussair Mazraoui and Steven Berghuis provide width, overlap, and deliver crosses that can turn a game on its head. Their stamina and defensive discipline make them valuable in both 4‑3‑3 and 3‑5‑2 setups.
The coach’s plan revolves around a flexible formation that can shift between a solid 4‑3‑3 and an aggressive 3‑5‑2 depending on the opponent. When facing a strong attacking side, the back four stays compact, with de Ligt covering the right side and van Dijk leading the centre. Against weaker teams, the three‑centre‑back system unlocks space for the wing‑backs to push high and support the front three.
Recent friendlies show the squad’s depth. Players like Steven Bergwijn and Davy Klaassen have impressed by delivering goals off the bench, meaning the team can maintain pressure even after a substitution. The blend of veteran leadership and hungry youngsters also helps the Dutch side adapt quickly if a match demands a tactical shift.
Looking ahead to Euro 2024, the squad’s biggest challenge will be maintaining consistency. The defense must stay organized, especially against teams that like to press high, while the midfield needs to control the tempo. If De Jong and De Ligt keep their fitness, the team has a solid platform to build on.
In short, the Netherlands squad this year is a mix of proven talent and fresh energy. Keep an eye on the starting eleven, but also watch the bench – the Dutch bench is packed with players who can change a game in minutes. Whether you’re a casual fan or a hardcore supporter, the upcoming matches promise plenty of orange action.
At 37, Arjen Robben says he would accept a Netherlands call-up for Euro 2020 if fit and useful. The winger, retired from international duty since 2017, returned to FC Groningen and delivered two assists in his first start in seven months. Frank de Boer names a preliminary squad soon and has until June 1 to finalize a 26-man list, keeping Robben's outside shot alive.
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