This article is part of a collaborative network of expert coverage for the 2026 World Cup, featuring insights from top news organizations in the 48 countries that have qualified. Leading up to the tournament starting June 11th, daily previews will be provided from three countries.
Complex Preparations for Koeman
Ronald Koeman faces unprecedented challenges as he prepares for the World Cup, a tournament fraught with difficulties he hasn’t encountered before as head coach. Renowned for his high ambitions and perfectionist tendencies, Koeman’s preparations this year have proven to be his most complex yet.
Injuries can derail any team’s plans, but when a significant portion of your starting lineup is either unavailable or recovering from long-term injuries, it becomes a critical issue. Earlier in the spring, Koeman made it clear that he would only select players who were fit and regularly playing; however, maintaining this strategy has quickly become a daunting task.
Notable absentees include Tottenham’s Xavi Simmons, who sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury in April and won’t return until next year. PSV’s Jerdi Schouten is also on the mend after suffering the same fate. Moreover, Matthijs de Ligt has yet to regain full fitness after dealing with a back ailment, which further complicates Koeman’s defensive strategies.
Navigating a Tough Group Stage
The Netherlands faces tough opponents in Group F, including Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia. This mandates that Koeman select players based on suitability rather than raw talent, aligning with the strategic needs of the team. The KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Association) has set a minimum objective to reach the semi-finals, a goal Koeman aims to exceed in his quest for a championship.
Underlining his aspirations, Koeman has indicated that he wants his team to be recognized for their relentless intensity. He emphasized to FIFA in May that he expects the players to demonstrate confidence, character, and a clear understanding of their strengths while respecting every opponent, regardless of their stature in the tournament.
Koeman’s Legacy and Personal Challenges
Ronald Koeman’s journey in football is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Johan Cruyff, a style he embraced during his formative years. Throughout his career, he has successfully managed major clubs such as Ajax, Feyenoord, and PSV, earning him considerable respect and strong relationships with international players.
Despite his professional commitments, Koeman is navigating personal hurdles as his wife, Bartina, faces cancer treatment. Diagnosed in 2010 and with recurrences in 2018 and 2023, Koeman has often prioritized family during this challenging period, demonstrating a profound dedication to both his personal life and his professional responsibilities. “If I have to leave, it would be to be with my wife,” he shared, highlighting her resilience and the importance of family support.
Defensive Strength: Virgil van Dijk
Traditionally, the Netherlands has been celebrated for its attacking prowess; however, the current team’s backbone lies in a formidable defense rather than an array of forwards. Led by stalwart Virgil van Dijk, the Liverpool defender serves as a critical leader on and off the field. At 33, van Dijk not only commands the defense but also plays a pivotal role in tactical discussions with Koeman, ensuring that the team is cohesive in its strategy.
Koeman acknowledges the importance of maintaining van Dijk’s sharpness, recognizing him as one of the team’s key leaders. Despite some criticism regarding his performance, Koeman emphasizes that van Dijk’s leadership is invaluable to the squad’s success.
Emerging Talent: Micky van de Ven
Micky van de Ven has recently drawn attention for his role at Tottenham, albeit amidst relegation battles, and previously faced exclusion from Koeman’s squad due to concerns over fitness. Rising through the ranks without joining any major academy, he has made his way to the Premier League through clubs like Volendam and Wolfsburg. Van de Ven’s remarkable speed, tackling prowess, and stamina add vital energy to the Netherlands’ defense as he solidifies his spot on the national team ahead of the World Cup.
Expectations from Dutch Fans
The vibrant spirit of Dutch fans will create a lively atmosphere in Kansas City, Dallas, and Houston during the tournament. The iconic orange double-decker buses will arrive in the U.S. a month ahead of the World Cup, traveling through the cities where the Netherlands will compete. Thousands of Dutch supporters are anticipated to join in the festivities, which are set to include performances from renowned Dutch artists and DJs, contributing to an electrifying ambiance in the lead-up to the matches.
US-Dutch Relations and Trump
The royal visits made by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to President Donald Trump have symbolized the Netherlands’ diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with the United States. Despite this, Dutch public opinion towards Trump has been largely unfavorable. Prominent figures in Dutch politics have openly criticized the former president, highlighting significant divisions in sentiment between the nations as they navigate their respective political landscapes.
Written by Marcel van der Klaan for De Telegraaf.
