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Looking at the potential game changers who could make the difference for the Netherlands national team in the 2026 World Cup.

At a tournament as prestigious as the 2026 World Cup, victory for any team often depends on more than just tactics or strategy.

Team cohesion alone isn’t always enough either.

Sometimes, outcomes hinge on tiny details—moments of brilliance from individual players capable of turning a game on its head.

That’s why having players with a game-changing mentality is crucial, and the Netherlands, under Ronald Koeman, will be no exception at the 2026 World Cup.

Reviewing the squad Koeman has assembled for De Oranje, there are several names who could easily be considered game changers—ranging from experienced veterans to promising young talents.

With the Netherlands grouped alongside Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia in Group F, Koeman must craft a detailed strategy to avoid an early stumble in the group stage.

Thus, the presence of decisive players who can alter the course of a match will be vital for Koeman’s ambitions in the tournament.

Koeman’s Nostalgia with Depay and Weghorst in the Dutch Squad

Among the experienced players in the Netherlands’ 2026 World Cup line-up, Memphis Depay’s presence remains significant.

According to Transfemkart, Depay has been one of Koeman’s most trusted players during his time in charge of the Dutch national team.

Currently playing for Corinthians, Depay has made 41 appearances under Koeman’s management.

That trust has been repaid with impressive performances, delivering 23 goals and 20 assists—clear proof of his influence whenever he’s on the pitch.

However, ahead of this World Cup, many believe Depay may not be as effective as he once was, mainly due to age and recurring injuries.

Now 32, Depay has struggled with physical issues. During the 2025/2026 season, he missed 10 matches for Corinthians due to hamstring and ankle injuries.

In addition, he was forced to skip the March 2026 FIFA Matchday with the Netherlands after suffering a right thigh injury while playing for his club.

Given that injury history, Koeman may have concerns about relying on Depay as a starting forward in the 2026 World Cup.

Meanwhile, Wout Weghorst—expected to be Depay’s backup—hasn’t offered much more. Despite earning 37 caps under Koeman, Weghorst has mostly served as a super-sub.

At 33, his physical intensity is no longer the same, and his role as a target man has lost its edge.

This situation suggests Koeman must reconsider his tactical approach and perhaps move on from the nostalgia of depending on seasoned veterans like Depay and Weghorst as his primary attacking options.

An Ageing Dutch Attack: The End of Ronald Koeman’s Old Guard

The 2026 World Cup will pose new and tougher challenges, demanding tactical flexibility and a modern approach from Koeman.

Rather than relying solely on experience, the Dutch coach is expected to trust his younger players to step up and make the difference.

That’s exactly what Arnan Binafsihi, a long-time Dutch football supporter and Vice Chairman of Oranje Indonesia, hopes to see.

When asked about the kind of courage Koeman needs to guide the Netherlands deep into the tournament, Arnan emphasized the importance of giving young players a chance.

“Koeman really needs to identify the right players to maximize the Netherlands’ potential at the World Cup,” Arnan told Tribunnews on Friday (5 June 2026).

“He should stop relying on Depay, who’s slowed down and often delays the game, or Weghorst, whose prime is clearly behind him,” he added.

Crysencio Summerville and Donyell Malen: The Surprise Game Changers for the Netherlands

Arnan also pointed out a few young names who could emerge as genuine game changers for the Dutch side—one of them being Crysencio Summerville.

Although the winger couldn’t prevent West Ham from relegation in the Premier League this season, Arnan believes the former Leeds United player has explosive qualities that can make the Netherlands’ attack more dynamic.

This season, Summerville has recorded seven goals and five assists in 34 club appearances—a solid return that highlights his potential as a left-wing threat.

“Crysencio Summerville is a strong candidate to become the Netherlands’ game changer,” Arnan said.

“He was West Ham’s most dangerous player last season despite their relegation. Even in the recent match against Algeria, where the Netherlands lost, Summerville made a promising debut on the right wing,” he added.

Another name Arnan believes could make a difference is Donyell Malen, who impressed with AS Roma this season.

Malen’s 14-goal tally played a crucial role in securing Roma’s Champions League qualification, something Koeman should take note of when forming his attacking strategy.

“Another possible game changer is Donyell Malen, who was sharp for AS Roma last season,” Arnan explained.

“He scored 14 goals last season, but he must improve his finishing if he wants to have the same impact for the Netherlands as he did in Rome.”

“Koeman should design a system that brings out the best in Malen, Summerville, Noa Lang, or Cody Gakpo,” Arnan concluded.

“He must move on from Depay and Weghorst. They’re good players, but their best days are behind them.”

Arnan’s statement serves as a clear signal that for Koeman to lead the Netherlands deep into the 2026 World Cup, he must finally let go of his attachment to the veterans and give way to a new generation of game changers.

The Netherlands will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Japan on Monday (15 June 2026) at 03:00 WIB.

(Tribunnews.com/Dwi Setiawan)