Netherlands coach Xavi Hernández names first squad without Memphis Depay

Xavi Hernández has announced his first squad selection as the head coach of the Netherlands national football team for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. The 26-man roster includes captain Virgil van Dijk but notably excludes record goalscorer Memphis Depay, as well as Wout Weghorst and the injured Frenkie de Jong.

New faces in the squad include debutants Ruben van Bommel and Gjivai Zechiël, while Joey Veerman returns to the national side after a two-year absence. The selection features a heavy presence of Premier League players, with half of the squad currently playing in England.

The Netherlands is scheduled to face Germany, Serbia, and Greece in their upcoming international window. Xavi, the first foreign manager for the Oranje in 48 years, has stated his intention to implement a more attacking footballing philosophy to improve the team's recent results.