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Ronald Koeman has announced his final 26-member Netherlands squad for the upcoming World Cup, with the absence of Jeremie Frimpong standing out as the most talked-about decision. The Dutch manager has opted to leave the wing-back out, prioritising dependable players and specific tactical attributes for the tournament.

Frimpong left out as Summerville earns selection

Koeman’s decision to exclude Frimpong has sparked discussion, as the coach pointed to both physical fitness and tactical considerations. The Liverpool player has battled recurring hamstring issues throughout his season at Anfield, restricting him to 35 appearances across all competitions, during which he scored two goals and provided two assists. Those setbacks ultimately affected his World Cup chances. Koeman was straightforward in explaining his decision to drop the dynamic Reds defender in favour of West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville.

“It’s true that he’s been injured quite often this season; against Ecuador, he came on as a substitute but had to come off again very quickly,” Koeman said about Frimpong. “That’s a physical issue, but I’ve also chosen someone else to play on the right wing: Summerville. That’s not surprising to me, as I wanted to call him up back in March. I like that kind of player who’s dependable on the pitch. He’s very capable on the right flank, and his work rate is outstanding.”

Midfield dilemmas for Netherlands

The Dutch side travels to the tournament with a weakened midfield after ACL injuries ruled out Xavi Simons and Jerdy Schouten. Although the situation opened up opportunities for emerging talents, Koeman opted against including youngsters Kees Smit and Luciano Valente, preferring more defensive solidity.

“I would have loved to take them both, but we have to make decisions,” Koeman said about the young midfielders. “When Schouten is unavailable, you assess your midfielders, and you can’t compare Smit or Valente to Marten De Roon or Schouten. He’s a pure defensive midfielder, a shield in front of the defence. Smit and Valente don’t fit that profile.”

Concerns over Timber and Kluivert’s return

Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber remains a significant injury concern within the camp. Although he features in the 26-player list, he remains doubtful for Saturday’s Champions League final against PSG and possibly for the World Cup itself. Koeman has kept Ian Maatsen and Lutsharel Geertruida on standby if Timber cannot prove his fitness soon. Meanwhile, Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert has earned a recall after recovering from surgery.

Explaining Kluivert’s inclusion, Koeman said: “We’ve selected Kluivert because he’s recovered well from his surgery. He hasn’t played much, but we allowed him to train for two days so we could assess him ourselves. I’m impressed with how fit he looks. We still have two weeks to go.”

The Dutch manager also spoke about Memphis Depay’s situation, acknowledging: “I would have preferred him to have had more playing time. He’s expected to start for Corinthians tonight, so we’ll wait and see. I’ve changed my perspective, though. Looking back, I wasn’t certain about starting him at Euro 2024. I might approach it differently next time.”

Weghorst’s unique value in the squad

Koeman’s choice of Wout Weghorst over Zian Flemming has also stirred debate, particularly since Flemming scored 11 goals in the Premier League this season. However, Koeman defended his decision, insisting that Weghorst brings a distinctive “chaos factor” that other Dutch forwards can’t offer.

“He has a specific role in the team. He’s very effective in that role. I don’t see anyone else capable of doing what he does. In those critical moments of a match, he’s the kind of player you can bring on,” Koeman explained.

The Netherlands will play warm-up fixtures against Algeria in Rotterdam and Uzbekistan in New York City as part of their final preparations before beginning their World Cup campaign against Japan on June 14. The Oranje are placed in Group F alongside Tunisia and Sweden.