Official: Netherlands Announce World Cup Squad

Netherlands coach Louis Van Gaal has announced his squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Netherlands will be looking to make a statement after years of international disappointment. They missed the 2018 World Cup in Russia and exited in the round of 16 at Euro 2020 last year.

Manager Van Gaal is as experienced as they come, leading the Dutch side to the top of their World Cup qualifying group, with seven wins from 10.

Van Gaal, who is back in his third spell, took charge of the Oranje at the 2014 World Cup, where they finished third, beating hosts Brazil 3-0 in the third-place match.

The Dutch side is captained by Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, who has emerged as one of the best players in the world during his time at Anfield. Their main goal scoring threat is Barcelona forward Memphis Depay, who has managed to maintain his international form despite playing a bench role for the Blaugrana.

However, they have a wealth of young talent to choose from all over the field, with PSV winger Cody Gakpo leading the revolution. Defenders Jurrien Timber and Tyrell Malacia are other young players to watch, while uncapped Xavi Simons was also called into the squad.

Defensively, the Dutch are extremely deep. Van Dijk may not be in form but he remains a top player, while Stefan de Vrij, Matthijs de Ligt, Timber, and Daley Blind are all playing at a high level for their big European clubs.

As they are paired in Group A with hosts Qatar, Senegal and Ecuador, they will open the group with Sadio Mane’s Teranga Lions on 21 November.

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Full Netherlands squad: