Netherlands' World Cup prospects sparking debate among former players

Former Dutch internationals have voiced contrasting views on the national team's chances at the upcoming World Cup. Rafael van der Vaart expressed optimism, saying the Netherlands could reach the quarter‑ or even semi‑finals if the squad stays in form. Wim Kieft took a more cautious stance, noting that advancing past the group stage is the primary goal and questioning the fitness of key striker Memphis Depay. Former striker Pierre van Hooijdonk highlighted the difficulty of the group, which includes Japan, Sweden and Tunisia.

Former national coach Bert van Marwijk added that the team's fortunes might have differed in 2014 if Arjen Robben had been fully fit, suggesting they could have become world champions. He recalled the 2010 final loss to Spain and noted that current coach Ronald Koeman will begin the World Cup campaign on 14 June against Japan.