Frimpong's snub heightens Liverpool right‑back battle
Liverpool right‑back Jeremie Frimpong has been omitted from the Netherlands’ final 23‑man squad for their latest international fixture, a blow that arrives amid a spell of limited playing time at Anfield. The decision follows a reduction from the 24 players initially named by national team manager Xavi and comes as manager Andoni Iraola continues to favour Ronald Araujo at right‑back.
Frimpong was originally listed in the Netherlands squad for the current international break, with Xavi announcing a 24‑player group for the upcoming matches. UEFA regulations, however, allow only 23 names on the submitted list, forcing the management to drop one player. The defender was the individual left out when the final roster was handed in.
Limited opportunities at Liverpool
At Liverpool, Frimpong’s chances have dwindled as Andoni Iraola has preferred Ronald Araujo at right‑back in recent weeks. This has left the Dutch international competing for minutes rather than enjoying a regular run that builds rhythm and confidence.
There is no indication that Frimpong has been excluded from the Netherlands set‑up permanently; his omission reflects the numbers rather than performance. The Dutch side still faces fixtures against Greece and Serbia, offering him further opportunities to impress before the international window closes.
Frimpong omitted by Xavi as Liverpool form wavers before Serbia
Other Liverpool internationals also miss out
Frimpong’s situation mirrors that of fellow Liverpool players Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz, who were also left out of their respective final international squads despite being involved during the break. Neither suffered injury, and both watched from the sidelines as the World Cup winners secured a 3‑2 victory at Wembley.
Liverpool will also keep an eye on striker Alexander Isak, who returned to Merseyside with a minor injury sustained while on Sweden duty. Isak had scored in Sweden’s latest fixture before being ruled out of the remaining matches, and the club’s medical team will assess him at the AXA Training Centre.
Frimpong’s immediate aim is to return to Liverpool ready to compete for his place and make a case for more minutes. Liverpool are set to resume their season against Manchester City on 11 October, providing a platform for him to showcase his abilities.
National team coach Xavi Hernandez benches Frimpong against Serbia
While the Netherlands decision may be frustrating, Frimpong’s response at club level will ultimately carry greater weight. He will be hoping the remaining international fixtures allow him to change the picture before the window closes.