Donyell Malen has pulled out of the Netherlands national team for their upcoming Nations League matches.
Displaying impressive form for Roma in Serie A this season, Malen played a full match against Inter on Saturday, but will miss representing his country due to an injury.
The specifics of Malen’s injury remain unclear, and he is among two players who have withdrawn, with Justin Kluivert also not participating.
Since making his Serie A debut on January 18, Malen has netted 20 goals in 23 matches, significantly outpacing any other player in that time frame (with Tasos Douvikas and Lautaro Martinez following at 10 goals).
He is currently the top scorer across Europe’s top five leagues, having surpassed Harry Kane and Raphinha, both with 18 goals.
Mexx Meerdink and Guus Til will take the places of Donyell Malen and Justin Kluivert in our squad.
Wishing a quick recovery to Donyell & Justin pic.twitter.com/5mINfuK5Ve
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 20, 2026
Malen has already scored six goals in Serie A this season, leading all players, and has exceeded his expected goals (xG) of 4.6.
Additionally, he has taken more shots on target (10) than anyone else, currently averaging a goal every 57.5 minutes in Italy’s top league.
With Xavi Hernandez set to lead the Netherlands for the first time during this extended international window, he has called up Guus Til and Mexx Meerdink as replacements.
On September 24, the Netherlands will face Germany in their first Nations League match, followed by games against Serbia and Greece.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer enthusiasts as it highlights the impact of injuries on player performances and team strategies at the national level. Malen’s absence could affect the Netherlands’ chances in the upcoming matches, showing how player form can ripple through international competitions, impacting fans’ hopes and national pride.
Source: www.soccernews.com
