The first squad selection of new Netherlands coach Xavi Hernández has sparked debate about captain Virgil van Dijk's position. Analysts from Voetbalpraat question whether the new manager should immediately form a new central defensive partnership. The 35-year-old Van Dijk has been the undisputed leader for years, but a new generation of defenders is emerging.
Xavi, who succeeded Ronald Koeman, must announce his squad this week for the September internationals. According to Karim El Ahmadi, the Spaniard could first hold exploratory talks with experienced players to explain their potentially changed roles. "If the defender excels weekly at Liverpool, the coach cannot possibly leave him out of the team," El Ahmadi states. The new manager's first selection will immediately reveal his plans.
Should Xavi immediately refresh the defense?
Anco Jansen sees the coaching change as the perfect moment for defensive renewal. "I do think that is the solution," Jansen says. He puts forward the names of Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven and Jurriën Timber as potential new center-backs. According to the former player, starting a new playing style with a fresh squad makes sense. The upcoming matches form important preparation for the World Cup 2026 qualification campaign, whose latest standings you can follow on our standings page.
Bram van Polen emphasizes that everything depends on the season Van Dijk has at Liverpool. He references the period under Arne Slot when the defender performed excellently after initial doubts. "His first year under Slot he was really good, and that's also because he's pushed to do that," Van Polen reflects. The analyst does note that the captain's status with the national team has changed. Despite his leadership, Van Polen says something negative hangs around Van Dijk with the Netherlands squad.
Which young defenders are in contention?
The discussion focuses on three specific young defenders. Jan Paul van Hecke (26) impressed last season at Brighton & Hove Albion. Micky van de Ven (25) developed into a regular at Tottenham Hotspur. Jurriën Timber (25) returned this season from a serious injury at Arsenal. All these players can be found in the current squad. Their Premier League performances are being closely monitored by the technical staff.
The choice between experience and youth presents a significant dilemma for Xavi Hernández. The coach starts with a clean slate and must decide whether to break the established hierarchy. A strong season from Van Dijk under Andoni Iraola at Liverpool makes it very difficult to overlook him. Poorer form would open the door wide for the new generation.
What does this mean for the captaincy?
Van Dijk's position as captain isn't directly in question, but his starting spot is. Xavi must determine whether to keep faith with the veteran or opt for a completely new central pairing. The Spanish coach played at the highest level himself and knows what experience can bring. He must also consider group dynamics and the leadership Van Dijk has provided for years.
The September internationals form the first real test for the new manager. The matches are part of preparation for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures page. All player performances are tracked in our stats section.
Xavi Hernández faces his first major decision as Netherlands coach. The selection for the September internationals will show how far he's willing to go in refreshing the defense. All eyes are on Virgil van Dijk's name when the list is announced.
