Zirkzee replaces injured Brobbey in Netherlands’ Nations League squad

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

The Netherlands have confirmed Joshua Zirkzee will link up with Xavi’s squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures following an injury to Brian Brobbey. 

Brobbey was replaced in the 35th minute by Mexx Meerdink during Thursday’s 1-1 draw with Germany, an incident which led to Felix Nmecha opening the scoring. 

Cody Gakpo was able to salvage a point with a stoppage-time leveller at Johan Cruijff Arena, but Xavi has been forced into making an early change to his squad.

The in-form Sunderland striker looked in visible discomfort as he left the pitch, clutching his hamstring, though the Netherlands did not disclose the severity of the injury. 

It offers the chance for Zirkzee to impress new Netherlands boss Xavi, with the Manchester United forward set to make his first appearance for his nation since November 2024. 

Zirkzee has accumulated six caps for the Netherlands since making his debut against Turkiye in July two years ago.

Joshua Zirkzee replaces the striker in our squad. pic.twitter.com/Jaan54ONFp

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 25, 2026

The Netherlands sit third in Group A2 following the first round of fixtures, with Greece at the top of the table following their 2-1 victory against Serbia away from home. 

Serbia are the Netherlands’ next opponents this Sunday, before the Oranje travel to Greece and welcome Serbia to Philips Stadion on October 4.

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