Xavi considers replacement for injured Gakpo at the Oranje

On Sunday evening, during the match against Serbia, Cody Gakpo was quickly injured. The Dutch Liverpool forward could not continue the game, meaning he will probably miss the rest of the Nations League. The injury came after a quick dive into the Serbian team's defence.

Presenter Jan Joost van Gangelen discussed the incident with reporter Hans Kraaij junior. “We probably won't see him again,” he opened the conversation. He wondered whether a replacement for the Liverpool forward should be called up.

Van Gangelen immediately mentioned Van Bommel and Noa Lang as available options. Kraaij replied that coaches work with 26 players, but only eleven can start, and that “You have Van Bommel and Noa Lang.” He suggested observing Valente for a week. He emphasized that both players were already present in the recent squad.

Speculation about Xavi’s choice

Van Gangelen thought it was not unreasonable if Xavi would still take the injured Gakpo. “I think he fell out as one of the last,” he said. Kraaij agreed and noted that “we’re also not in a great position.”

He named Reijnders as a fine player, but emphasized that the midfield was not strong, neither against Germany nor in recent matches. According to Van Gangelen, creativity in the centre remains a concern for the coach.

Van Bommel looks forward to the duel with Zidane in the Nations League

Valente’s disappointment and position debate

Valente expressed disappointment about not being called up for the Nations League. “Of course I was disappointed, because secretly I hoped I would be included. I have to speak with my feet and that’s what I did today against FC Utrecht,” he explained.

Coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst responded to the discussion about Valente’s position. He stated that Valente is not a fixed winger, but can fulfil both roles, as he is originally a midfielder. Van Bronckhorst added that Valente’s flexibility could be an asset for the squad.

Former coach Robert Maaskant explained that Valente’s status as a left‑forward has disadvantaged him in the competition with Van Bommel, Gakpo and Noa Lang. “That’s not fortunate for him, because you have to deal with those different types,” Maaskant said.

Liverpool investigates Gakpo's ankle injury after Nations League loss

Gakpo’s injury forces the Oranje to reconsider the attacking line, with both experienced players and young talents vying for a place in the Nations League squad.