- Bart Verbruggen, Jan Paul van Hecke and Mats Wieffer are in the Netherlands squad
- Wieffer returns after missing the last four international windows
- Ronald Koeman delayed his announcement before confirming his final squad
Three Brighton & Hove Albion players have been named in the Netherlands’ squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with Bart Verbruggen, Jan Paul van Hecke and Mats Wieffer all included by Ronald Koeman.
The selection marks another significant moment for Brighton’s growing international presence and reflects the impact several Seagulls players have made throughout the 2025/26 campaign.
Verbruggen and Van Hecke rewarded for strong seasons
Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen’s inclusion comes as little surprise after another impressive season as Brighton’s first-choice stopper. The Dutch international has continued to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising young goalkeepers, producing a series of important performances throughout the campaign.
Alongside him is fellow defender Jan Paul van Hecke, who has enjoyed arguably his strongest season since arriving at the Amex Stadium. The centre-back has become a key figure in Fabian Hurzeler’s defensive setup, combining aggression, leadership and composure on the ball.
Van Hecke’s consistency has helped him cement his place in Koeman’s plans, with the 25-year-old now viewed as one of the Netherlands’ most reliable defensive options heading into the tournament.
Why Mats Wieffer has earned a recall
Perhaps the most notable inclusion from a Brighton perspective is Mats Wieffer. The versatile midfielder has earned a recall after missing each of the last four international windows. Despite naturally operating in midfield, Wieffer has spent much of the season playing at right-back under Hurzeler, impressing with his adaptability and tactical intelligence.
Koeman has listed him as a midfielder in the Netherlands squad, highlighting the role he is expected to fulfil internationally.
Wieffer’s return follows a strong campaign in which he became one of Brighton’s most dependable performers. His physicality, positional awareness and ability to cover multiple roles have made him a valuable asset throughout the season.
Hurzeler recently backed the Dutchman for international recognition, praising both his mentality and development.
“He’s there for the team, he’s an absolute team player,” the Brighton head coach said towards the end of the season.
The Netherlands manager delayed his squad announcement by 48 hours in order to assess players following the conclusion of domestic competitions before confirming his final 26-man group.
The Dutch side will face Algeria and Uzbekistan in pre-World Cup friendlies before beginning their tournament campaign. They have been drawn into Group F alongside Japan, Sweden and Tunisia.
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Another milestone for Brighton’s international growth
For Brighton, the inclusion of Verbruggen, Van Hecke and Wieffer continues the club’s growing reputation for developing international-level talent.
With European football returning to the Amex next season and several players attracting interest from across Europe, having three representatives in one of football’s biggest tournaments is another indication of the progress made under Hurzeler.
The trio will now look to carry their Brighton form onto the international stage as the Netherlands aim to challenge for World Cup success.
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