Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad after managing an injury in recent appearances for the Reds.
An official announcement from the Dutch FA confirmed that Van Dijk and Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey will miss the upcoming fixtures against Greece and Germany.
No replacements will be called up by head coach Xavi Hernandez.
A couple of months ago, Virgil van Dijk admitted that continuing to represent his country was a “massive decision”, although it always seemed likely that he would continue his international career.
Following discussions with Xavi, who took over from Ronald Koeman after the World Cup, the Liverpool skipper decided to remain available for the Netherlands.
“I had to feel the confidence and the combination of respect and joy and everything I wanted,” Van Dijk explained.
“That was from the first second the case, so the conversation didn’t need to be that long.
“But it was very good, so I am really looking forward to meeting up for the important four games (in the previous international break). Let’s make the next two years at least an amazing time.”
Liverpool return to action with Premier League fixtures against Manchester United and Everton, with a Champions League trip to Club Brugge in between.
The demanding schedule continues with two matches per week throughout December, making the international break a welcome opportunity for Van Dijk to rest and recover.
Another experienced member of the squad, Alisson Becker, will also remain on Merseyside after being left out of Brazil’s squad by head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
“It’s not that I will sit on the couch for a week and then come back to training,” Alisson said on Sunday. “I still have to work hard but in my mind I can use the time to relax and be more with my family.
“It’s a little bit against my will. What I always want is to be with the national team but I understand this is what I have at the moment and I will use this time and take the benefit from the rest.”
Virgil van Dijk and Brian Brobbey aren’t fit enough to feature in the upcoming Nations League matches. ❌
No replacements will be called up. https://t.co/TB5aTNUcn3
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) November 9, 2026
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