Steven Bergwijn

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Steven Bergwijn's FIFA World Cup 2026 Prospects Severely Diminished Following Saudi Arabia Move

Steven Bergwijn's chances of representing the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup 2026 appear to be non-existent under current national team coach Ronald Koeman. Koeman publicly stated in September 2024 that Bergwijn would no longer be called up to the national team after his transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, citing a "lack of sporting ambition" as the primary reason for his decision.

This declaration ignited a public feud between the player and the coach. Bergwijn, who joined Al-Ittihad from Ajax in July 2024 for €31.25 million, responded by stating he no longer wishes to play for Koeman, criticizing the manager for communicating his decision through the media rather than directly contacting him. Koeman, however, has reiterated his stance, emphasizing his belief that a move to Saudi Arabia at the age of 26 is not a sporting ambition.

Current Club Performance and Injury Status

Bergwijn, who turned 28 in October 2025, plays as a left winger or forward for Al-Ittihad. For the 2025/2026 season, he has made 15 appearances across all competitions (Saudi Pro League, AFC Champions League, King's Cup, Saudi Super Cup), scoring 7 goals and providing 1 assist. In the Saudi Pro League, he has 4 goals and 1 assist in 7 appearances, playing 531 minutes. His overall form has fluctuated, with recent match ratings suggesting varying performances.

In February 2025, Bergwijn sustained injuries after a fall at his home, resulting in wounds to his leg and hand, and requiring stitches. While he was granted a brief medical leave and expected to return to training shortly after the incident, he missed an Al-Ittihad match against Al-Khaleej. His injury history also includes ankle, calf, muscle, and groin issues throughout his career.

Analysis of 2026 World Cup Prospects

Given Ronald Koeman's explicit and firm stance on not selecting players who move to the Saudi Pro League due to perceived lack of sporting ambition, Steven Bergwijn's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are currently non-existent as long as Koeman remains the national team coach. Even if Bergwijn maintains strong club form, the current public disagreement and Koeman's unwavering position create an insurmountable barrier to his inclusion in the Dutch squad for the foreseeable future.