Liverpool’s title-winning trio included in Dutch squad for Malta qualifier

Liverpool stars Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Ryan Gravenberch have been called up to the Netherlands national team for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, which begins this week.

Ronald Koeman’s side will host Malta at the Euroborg Stadium in Groningen on Tuesday, June 10, after opening their campaign against Finland on June 7 in Helsinki.

Despite finishing strong in recent international outings, the Netherlands enter this qualifying campaign on the back of disappointment after falling short in their UEFA Nations League quarter-final against Spain.

Leading the defensive line will be Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Joining him is teammate Cody Gakpo, who has become an essential figure in the Dutch attack since his transfer to Liverpool, known for his pace, movement between the lines, and finishing. Ryan Gravenberch, another Liverpool player in Koeman’s squad, brings depth to the midfield with his technical quality and growing maturity.

Also making headlines is Jeremie Frimpong, recently signed by Liverpool from 2023/2024 Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen. His versatility as a wing-back could give Koeman more attacking width on the right flank.

The Netherlands’ midfield remains star-studded, with Barcelona’s title-winning playmaker Frenkie de Jong headlining the selection. Manchester City’s Nathan Aké and Inter’s Denzel Dumfries and Stefan de Vrij—who recently lost the UEFA Champions League final—will provide further experience in defense.

In attack, PSV winger Noa Lang—fresh off a memorable Champions League campaign, including a key performance in knocking Juventus out in the play-offs—is one to watch.

Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, a dynamic and intelligent midfielder, adds further creativity to Koeman’s midfield options.

Meanwhile, Europa League winner with Tottenham, defender Micky van de Ven, brings both speed and strength to the backline, while Xavi Simons, currently at RB Leipzig and rumored to be heading to Barcelona, provides flair and unpredictability.

Malta are expected to announce their final squad within hours, led by Italian coach Emilio De Leo having announced a provisional squad earlier last month.

SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Mark Flekken (Brentford), Nick Olij (Sparta Rotterdam), Kjell Scherpen (Sturm Graz)

Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Stefan de Vrij, Denzel Dumfries (both Inter Milan), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen), Lutsharel Geertruida (RB Leipzig), Jorrel Hato (Ajax Amsterdam), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion)

Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Noa Lang (PSV Eindhoven), Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)

Forwards: Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Donyell Malen (Aston Villa), Wout Weghorst (Ajax Amsterdam).