The Netherlands national team has suffered an unexpected blow ahead of its upcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures, with young forward Mexx Meerdink withdrawing from the squad after sustaining a training-ground injury, the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has confirmed.
Meerdink, 22, was included in the Oranje roster for the first time just days ago as one of the fresh attacking options for the qualifiers against Malta on October 9 and Finland on October 12. But a setback in training this week has forced him to withdraw, depriving coach Ronald Koeman of a youthful presence in his frontline.
According to reports, Meerdink sustained the injury during a training session on Tuesday, shortly after joining his national teammates. The KNVB statement did not immediately disclose the precise nature or expected duration of his absence, leaving questions about whether he could yet return to the squad or be replaced before the crucial fixtures.
The timing is particularly unfortunate. Meerdink had just earned his maiden senior call-up, a recognition of his impressive club performances with AZ Alkmaar.
In the weeks leading to the selection, Dutch media and fans alike had viewed his inclusion as a bold statement by Koeman, who has been seeking alternatives in attack amid concerns over established forwards’ form and fitness.
In selecting Meerdink in the 24-man squad, Koeman had cited the need to ease pressure on Memphis Depay, whose playing time at Corinthians has been limited, and to expand the pool of striking options ahead of key qualifiers. Meerdink’s inclusion was seen as a step toward rejuvenating the national team’s offensive approach and preparing for future tournaments.
While Meerdink was viewed as a long-term bet rather than an immediate starter, his withdrawal complicates Koeman’s attacking plans. The Dutch coach must now decide whether to call in a replacement or proceed with a reduced roster.
With Meerdink out, the existing forwards in the squad — including Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen and Wout Weghorst — will shoulder greater responsibility in leading the attack.
For AZ Alkmaar, the loss of their promising talent also comes as a blow. Meerdink, the son of former professional footballer Martijn Meerdink, has steadily made his mark in the Eredivisie, earning attention for his pace, movement, and goal-scoring instincts.
His career to date has included spells with Jong AZ and a loan stint at Vitesse. In the 2024–25 season, he scored nine goals in the Dutch top flight, often making an impact from the bench but proving his consistency when given starts.
For the KNVB, the situation also presents logistical and administrative considerations. Under FIFA and UEFA rules, teams are allowed to replace injured players in qualifying squads up to a specific deadline — but only if the injury is verified by medical officials and the replacement is formally approved.
It remains unclear whether the Dutch will make use of that allowance in this window.