Overview
- Sunderland forward Brian Brobbey left the Netherlands' 1-1 draw with Germany with a hamstring problem in the first half and has withdrawn from the squad.
- Head coach Xavi Hernandez immediately called up Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee as Brobbey’s replacement and the KNVB confirmed the move.
- Zirkzee is due to complete medical checks at KNVB headquarters in Zeist before joining the squad for the away game in Belgrade against Serbia.
- Xavi defended the selection as a tactical choice and opted for Zirkzee over veterans Memphis Depay and Wout Weghorst, saying the player fits his system.
- Zirkzee has six senior caps and had not been called since November 2024, with only four substitute appearances for Manchester United this season, so the recall could affect his international standing and club future as the Netherlands prepare for three Nations League fixtures.