At this rate, Ronald Koeman himself may end up putting the crampons back on. For his return to the head of the selection of the Netherlands, the former defender must face a cascade of packages before the first match of the qualifiers for Euro 2024 against France, Friday evening. Already deprived of Frenkie de Jong and Steven Bergwijn, he will have to do without five players affected Thursday by “a viral infection”, announced the Federation.
Among those concerned, striker Cody Gakpo, revelation of the World Cup and danger number 1 of the Dutch with Memphis Depay. Defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Sven Botman, goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and midfielder Joey Veerman are the other four players affected.
Koeman, who succeeded Louis van Gaal after the World Cup, called on three replacements: Ryan Gravenberch (Bayern Munich), Kjell Scherpen (Vitesse) and Stefan de Vrij (Inter). The selection will have 23 players, instead of 25. “After the match against France, the composition of the selection will be reviewed,” said the federation. The second qualifying match promises to be a little lighter, since the Dutch will face Gibraltar on Monday.