Netherlands Overview

The annual NXGN lists are back for 2026, as GOAL ranks the world's top teenage talents in men's and women's football, crowning winners that will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Lena Oberdorf and Linda Caicedo in being recognised as the best young footballers on the planet.

Memphis Depay has moved to clarify his actions after being caught on camera using his mobile phone during Corinthians' 1-1 draw with Flamengo. The veteran forward appeared to be reprimanded by club officials as he sat in the dugout, sparking a social media frenzy regarding his professionalism. Despite the optics, the former Manchester United man insists his intentions were strictly related to his ongoing recovery.

A WSL debut awaits the 19-year-old, who has made her Netherlands bow, completed a record move from PSV and played at Euro 2025 in the last 12 months

Lieke Martens has called time on her professional football career at the age of 32, a year after announcing her international retirement.