Valentijn Driessen criticism of the Netherlands squad has sparked fresh debate ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with the Dutch journalist questioning whether Ronald Koeman’s side can compete at the highest level.
Speaking on Dutch television programme Vandaag Inside, Driessen delivered a blunt assessment of Oranje’s current situation, pointing to a lack of regular playing time and form among key players as a major concern.
Valentijn Driessen criticism Netherlands squad raises concerns
Driessen’s main argument centres on the form and club roles of several high-profile internationals. According to the De Telegraaf journalist, too many of Koeman’s core players are not starting regularly for their clubs.
He highlighted Cody Gakpo, Tijjani Reijnders, Jeremie Frimpong and Nathan Aké as examples, suggesting that limited minutes at club level could impact performance on the international stage.
“That won’t work at all with the Netherlands. Gakpo is our best attacker but sits on the bench at Liverpool. Reijnders is one of the best midfielders but sits on the bench at Manchester City.” — Valentijn Driessen, via Vandaag Inside
Driessen also pointed to broader concerns across the squad, arguing that the overall picture becomes worrying when assessing the group as a whole.
Virgil van Dijk and leadership questioned
The discussion also turned towards Virgil van Dijk, with Driessen questioning the captain’s recent performances and leadership influence. "Van Dijk starts for Liverpool but made 3 mistakes against Manchester City"
While acknowledging his presence as a personality within the squad, he suggested that his displays have not always matched expectations, referencing a recent performance against Manchester City.
From the last few international fixtures we’ve covered, Van Dijk remains central to the team’s structure, but scrutiny around consistency appears to be growing as the tournament approaches. However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions on his overall impact heading into the World Cup.
World Cup outlook causing concern among pundits
Driessen’s scepticism was echoed by fellow pundit Johan Derksen, who admitted concerns about the Netherlands’ ability to progress beyond the group stage.
The draw has placed Netherlands alongside Japan, Sweden and Tunisia, a group viewed as competitive rather than straightforward.
There was also a lighter moment during the discussion, with humour used to underline the uncertainty surrounding expectations. However, the underlying message remained clear — confidence around the squad’s prospects is not universally shared.
Why squad form is becoming a key issue
The balance between individual quality and match sharpness has become a recurring theme.
Many of Koeman’s key players operate at top European clubs, but irregular playing time can affect rhythm and consistency, particularly in tournament football where margins are tight.
This suggests that selection decisions and player form in the lead-up to the World Cup could play a decisive role. However, much will depend on how these players perform in the final weeks of the club season.
Key Insights
- Valentijn Driessen has questioned the Netherlands’ World Cup chances
- Concerns focus on lack of playing time for key players
- Virgil van Dijk’s performances and leadership have been scrutinised
- The Netherlands face Japan, Sweden and Tunisia in the group stage
- Pundits are divided on Oranje’s prospects
What’s next for the Netherlands?
Ronald Koeman will continue monitoring his squad closely as the club season progresses, with player form and fitness likely to influence final selections.
Upcoming international fixtures and training camps will offer opportunities to build cohesion and address concerns raised by pundits.
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
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By JamesLove 7 Apr 2026 07:18
They went from van Persie, Robben, Van Nistelrooy to Gakpo en Depay
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