No Memphis Depay as Xavi announces his first Netherlands squad

No Memphis Depay as Xavi announces his first Netherlands squad Memphis Depay is one of the big names missing from Xavi’s first Netherlands squad. The former Barcelona midfielder has omitted the Brazilian based striker, as well as other veteran players like Marten de Roon and Wout Weghorst. Debut call ups have been given to Ruben van Bommel, called up on the same day that his father has announced his squad for Belgium . Joining van Bommel as a debutant is Gjivai Zechiël, who has impressed at Feyenoord to start the season. In goal, it is pretty much the usual suspects, with Mark Flekken, Robin Roefs and the likely starter, Bart Verbruggen, the trio of goalkeepers Xavi has selected. There had been talk of Virgin van Dijk missing out, but the Liverpool man has made the squad for now. Jeremie Frimpong, who missed the World Cup due to injury, also joins his fellow Liverpool teammate in the squad. Despite leaving European football, both Saudi Arabian based players Tijjani Reijnders and Crysencio Summerville have made the squad. Kenneth Taylor also returns, having missed out on the World Cup, with Joey Veerman another included in midfield following his move to Borussia Dortmund. With the omission of Depay, it may be clear that Xavi wants to move in a different direction upfront. Instead of Depay, Xavi will likely look to Brian Brobbey or the inform Donyell Malen to score the goals for his Dutch side. The Netherlands will face Germany at home to start the international break, before visiting Serbia and Greece. Serbia will then return to the Netherlands to round out the international window. GBeNeFN  |  Ben Jackson