the Oranje fears overload, Xavi urges shorter international break

The Dutch have played four matches in the Nations League in the recent short period – two against Serbia, one against Germany and one against Greece – and the pressure on players is palpable everywhere. This pace has led to discontent among both players and associations.

Players leave the squad

Many players have withdrawn, including Brian Brobbey, Cody Gakpo and Jan Paul van Hecke. Their absence underlines the heaviness of the schedule.

Denzel Dumfries voiced his opinion during the press conference ahead of the home match against Serbia. “It’s a lot. You’re also away from your club for quite a while. I’m in favour of a shorter international break, but we have to respect the schedule.”

Xavi also shared the same concern. “I agree with Denzel that four matches is too many. Maybe you could play three, but for the clubs and the national team two internationals are enough.”

He added: “Perhaps if everyone pushes, we can achieve something together. But I think next year will be the same as it was.”

Associations consider intervening

It is clear that the calendar must be revised. explained that the final of the 2026 World Cup on 19 July, the latest date for a World Cup final in the summer since 1966, stretched the calendar. The later start of national competitions, especially in Europe, increased the pressure on players.

The broadcaster emphasized that fewer international windows reduce the travel burden for players. “Because there are fewer international windows, players have to travel less often from one continent to another to turn out for their national team,” it was stated.

On Thursday UEFA members gathered and voiced massive opposition to the extended international break. “The majority of those present prefer the old system with five two‑week international breaks per season,”, which also noted that smaller associations and commercial interests are under pressure. This signals a broadly supported desire to shorten the international calendar.