Dutch coach Ronald Koeman was surprised by an influenza virus that swept through his squad, resulting in five players being sent back home just before their match against France in the European Championship qualifiers. The Dutch national team announced today that defensive duo Matthijs de Ligt and Sven Botman, forward Cody Gakpo, midfielder Joel Verman, and goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen have returned home due to illness.
Koeman stated at a press conference, "We do not rule out the possibility of more players withdrawing, and that seems likely to me. We are a bit more careful when shaking hands, but you cannot set a rule for every interaction between humans." He reported receiving news from the team doctor early Thursday morning that five players had fallen ill, adding, "I was shocked. I went down to the hotel lobby and saw Joel Verman sitting there, waiting for a taxi."
Koeman has called up Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij, Bayern Munich midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, and Vitesse Arnhem goalkeeper Kijl Scherpen as replacements for tomorrow's Group B match in Paris. However, the coach may recall the ill players if they recover in time for the Netherlands' home match against Gibraltar in Rotterdam next Tuesday. He noted that it is uncertain whether they would return to the squad, as it depends on how things develop.
