Captain Virgil van Dijk has pledged his commitment to the Netherlands until at least the 2026 World Cup, while coach Ronald Koeman has ruled out the possibility of Steven Bergwijn's return after his move to Saudi Arabia. Koeman, who guided the Dutch to the Euro 2024 semifinals, losing to England, is gearing up for a Nations League match against Bosnia & Herzegovina in Eindhoven on Saturday. He disclosed that he traveled to Liverpool for direct discussions with Van Dijk.
"I felt it crucial to visit him to assess his commitment and future aspirations at the top level for the next two years. He is fully committed, and so am I. All uncertainties have been dispelled, and he continues to be dedicated," Koeman stated to the media.
Koeman acknowledged Van Dijk's self-criticism regarding his performance at the European Championship, praising his leadership as captain. However, he suggested that Van Dijk might have expended too much energy on his teammates rather than focusing on his own performance.
Regarding Bergwijn, Koeman confirmed he had not contemplated his selection due to his lackluster start at Ajax Amsterdam and subsequent transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. "His chapter with us is essentially closed. He understands my perspective on this," Koeman explained. "At 26, a player's primary goal should be sporting, not financial. These are personal decisions that players make."
Koeman also expressed that it is unlikely that midfielders Marten de Roon and Georginio Wijnaldum will feature in his future plans, as he explores other options. Daley Blind has already retired from the national team. Additionally, Koeman did not include Memphis Depay, who is currently without a club after departing from Atletico Madrid, although it is reported that he is in talks with Sevilla.
"The main reason he is not considered is his lack of a club. Without playing football, he cannot represent the national team. Memphis is 30, and we hope he finds a club and gets back in shape. Then he remains a potential option for me," Koeman noted. The Dutch team will also face Germany in Amsterdam next Tuesday.
