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The Netherlands are grappling with the aftermath of a shocking World Cup exit following their penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the round of 32. Former Dutch international Ronald de Boer has now forecasted sweeping changes for the national side, suggesting that both captain Virgil van Dijk and manager Ronald Koeman may soon end their international involvement.

Koeman’s departure ‘100 per cent’ certain

After a devastating elimination that saw the Netherlands fail to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their illustrious history, Ronald de Boer believes that a change in leadership is inevitable. Speaking to talkSPORT, the former Ajax and Rangers midfielder expressed firm confidence that Koeman will not continue as head coach beyond the tournament, particularly with the 63-year-old’s contract expiring this summer.

“Let me put it this way, I think he will decide to step down himself because the pressure is too high,” De Boer said. “He mentioned he would think about it for one or two nights, but I’m certain he’ll walk away — 100 per cent. If he doesn’t do it himself, I think Nigel de Jong, the technical director of the federation, will make that decision. We need a new spark in this Dutch team, starting with the coach, and I believe that will happen.” The coach has already admitted that he is contemplating his future following the penalty heartbreak.

Van Dijk expected to retire from international football

The shake-up may not be limited to the coaching staff, as 34-year-old captain Virgil van Dijk is also tipped to call time on his international career. Despite being the defensive cornerstone of the team, De Boer feels the Liverpool defender may believe he has given all he can at the international level. With Euro 2028 as the next major tournament — by which time Van Dijk will be 37 — a transition in leadership looks imminent.

“I think we’ll hear about that soon, and I believe Van Dijk, who has worn the captain’s armband and been an outstanding leader, will probably say, ‘This was my last game,’” De Boer added. “There’s been criticism about him not dragging the team forward, but he deserves full respect — he’s been a great captain. However, sometimes it’s just time to move on.”

Tactics under scrutiny

The defeat to Morocco showcased a clear departure from the Netherlands’ traditional attacking style, as the team oddly claimed their tactical plan worked despite managing only two shots on target over 120 minutes. Van Dijk, who has earned 96 caps for his country, gave a post-match assessment that left many puzzled. He said: “It’s very difficult to analyse it right now. It was an intense match. I think we were solid defensively — they couldn’t really find the free man between the lines, so the gameplan worked, of course. We scored a good goal, but in stoppage time we got pinned back. Then it went to penalties, and unfortunately, we’re out.”

A captain’s chapter comes to a close

Van Dijk assumed the captaincy during Koeman’s first spell in charge and has since been a pivotal figure in the Netherlands’ resurgence on the world stage. With 13 international goals to his name, he stands among the country’s most accomplished defenders. Still, his national career has been marked by missed opportunities and heartbreak, including missing Euro 2020 due to injury and enduring multiple penalty shootout defeats.

Reflecting on the emotional impact of the latest loss, Van Dijk made it clear that his immediate concern was supporting his teammates rather than discussing his own future. “Right now, I just want to get inside as quickly as possible to be with the boys. That’s all I’m thinking about at this moment,” he said.