Xavi Hernandez leaves Depay out of the squad against Germany

In Amsterdam, Xavi Hernandez, the new national coach of the Netherlands, presented his first 26‑man squad for the upcoming international matches. In doing so, he left out the 32‑year‑old striker Memphis Depay, the record goal scorer of the Dutch national team, for the duel against Germany, sending a clear signal to the attack.

Depay's Absence and Consequences

Depay, 32, plays for the Brazilian club Corinthians and, with 55 goals in 112 internationals, is the most successful scorer in the history of the Dutch national team. However, at the last World Cup he was primarily used as a substitute.

Xavi also omitted striker Wout Weghorst, while Brian Brobbey, Cody Gakpo, Noa Lang, Donyell Malen and the newly‑called‑up Ruben van Bommel were included in the squad. With this, the coach relies on a mix of established attacking players and young talents.

Xavi steadies the Netherlands and shares the lead in the Nations League

The Netherlands' first match takes place on September 24 in Amsterdam against Germany. Three days later the team faces Serbia, followed by fixtures against Greece and another duel with Serbia.

Joey Veerman returns to the national team after a long break, while Gjivai Zechiël was nominated for the first time. Virgil van Dijk remains in the squad, having decided after a conversation with Xavi to continue his international career.