Stefan de Vrij injury puts Netherlands' World Cup 2026 defense in doubt

Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij, 34, suffered a thigh injury in the final Serie A match of the season against Bologna. He left the field in the closing stages and was substituted, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of the Netherlands' squad selection for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Coach Ronald Koeman is finalising the Dutch roster, but De Vrij's availability is now uncertain. The Netherlands already face defensive worries after centre‑back Matthijs de Ligt was ruled out and Jurriën Timber's fitness remains in question. De Vrij, a regular starter for Oranje, had been in contention for a key defensive role, and his injury adds further doubt to the back‑line options.

The defender is also approaching the end of his contract with Inter Milan, which expires this summer, adding another layer of uncertainty to his future club situation.