National coach Koeman praises the potential and quality of his team

Dutch coach Ronald Koeman has praised his side’s potential after they qualified for the 2026 World Cup on Monday, but insisted they demand more from each other if they want to succeed in next year’s final.

He has high hopes for the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the US, “because there is so much quality in this squad,” he said after the 4-0 win over Lithuania, which secured top spot in their qualifying group.

«We simply have a great selection. There is a lot of competition, and you can see that in the players who come on (as substitutes). They are difficult choices, because there is so much quality.»

Competition in the squad is essential to get the best out of everyone, he added. “If we tighten our expectations of each other a little, to make each other even bigger, stronger and better, then a lot is possible.

«(Captain) Virgil (van Dijk) plays a role in that, Frenkie (de Jong) plays a role in that, Memphis (Depay) plays a role in that. That is the core of our team. Nathan (Ake), Denzel (Dumfries)… they are experienced guys who have been playing at the highest level for years and therefore know what is expected of them.»

«When young players come in, you need leadership. And that cannot always come from the coach,» said Koeman. «We talk about that regularly. We can and must improve that, demand even more from each other, because if you don’t believe there is more to it, there is no point.»

He said there is huge potential for the Dutch, who are now waiting for next month’s draw to see who they will face in the final in June.

«This team can play so well, so that’s why it’s sometimes difficult to accept that mistakes are made. If you make those mistakes during a World Cup, you might just go home. And that would be a shame because this is a great team in terms of quality,» he added.

Published on November 18, 2025