Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has omitted right-back Jeremie Frimpong from the national team squad for the 2026 World Cup.
The decision removes one of the team's most dynamic attacking options from the roster heading into the tournament in North America. Frimpong's absence creates a vacancy in the defensive rotation and shifts the tactical expectations for the Dutch side.
Koeman announced a total squad size of 26 players [1]. While the roster includes several key returns, the exclusion of Frimpong stands as the most significant omission from the final list.
According to the manager, the decision was based on the player's recent form and availability. Koeman said the lack of game time Frimpong received at Liverpool this season was the primary reason for the snub [2].
Frimpong has struggled to secure a consistent starting role at the English club over the current campaign. This lack of competitive minutes left the manager unwilling to include him in the 26-player group [1].
Other selections include Crysencio Summerville, who was picked for the tournament [3]. The Dutch team will now focus on integrating their selected players as they prepare for the group stages of the competition.
“Jeremie Frimpong was left out of the Netherlands 2026 World Cup squad.”
The exclusion of Frimpong highlights Ronald Koeman's prioritization of match fitness over raw talent for the 2026 tournament. By favoring players with consistent club minutes, the manager is mitigating the risk of integrating a player who may lack the rhythm required for the intensity of the World Cup, even if it means sacrificing a high-ceiling offensive threat at right-back.
