Xavi Hernández has announced his first Netherlands squad as the new head coach, with 26 players in the immediate UEFA Nations League matches and he will be in charge.
The squad was announced on Friday, September 18, 2026, ahead of the Netherlands' first Nations League match against Germany. This was Xavi’s first call-up to the Dutch national team since he replaced Ronald Koeman at the FIFA World Cup of 2026.
Xavi Names First Netherlands Squad
Xavi has made several changes to the Netherlands setup in his first selection. The squad includes experienced players such as captain Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Nathan Aké, Denzel Dumfries and Frenkie de Jong as usual midfield colleagues.
But some familiar names are missing due to injuries. Matthijs de Ligt, Jerdy Schouten, Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons were reported to be recovering from injuries while Ian Maatsen and Mats Wieffer were also absent.
Van Dijk continues as Netherlands Captain.
One of the most interesting developments of all is Virgil van Dijk.
The Liverpool defender is still in that team and will continue to provide experience in the Netherlands defense. His inclusion follows reports that he would continue his international career under the new coach.
The defensive group also includes Denzel Dumfries, Jeremie Frimpong, Jurriën Timber, Micky van de Ven, Jorrel Hato and Jan Paul van Hecke.
Xavi’s first squad! 🇳🇱
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 18, 2026
First call-up for Ruben & Gjivai! 🦁 pic.twitter.com/gd1JcOLQOe
Ruben van Bommel gets first call-Up
One of the highlights of Xavi's first squad is Ruben van Bommel.
The PSV forward has been called up for his first senior Netherlands call-up. His selection will see the young forward make his international debut in the Nations League this season.
Feyenoord midfielder Gjivai Zechiël also has his first Netherlands call-up. Both players are among the fresh faces in Xavi's first squad.
Full Netherlands Squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen, Robin Roefs, Mark Flekken.
Defenders: Denzel Dumfries, Jeremie Frimpong, Lutsharel Geertruida, Jurriën Timber, Virgil van Dijk, Jan Paul van Hecke, Nathan Aké, Micky van de Ven, Jorrel Hato.
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch, Tijjani Reijnders, Joey Veerman, Quinten Timber, Teun Koopmeiners, Kenneth Taylor, Justin Kluivert, Gjivai Zechiël.
Forwards: Crysencio Summerville, Donyell Malen, Brian Brobbey, Cody Gakpo, Noa Lang, Ruben van Bommel.
Netherlands Nations League Fixtures
The Netherlands will begin their Nations League campaign against Germany on 24 September in Amsterdam. They will then visit Serbia on 27 September and then Greece away on 1 October. The Dutch side will meet Serbia again at home on 4 October.
The team will later face Greece and Germany again in November as the League A campaign continues.
