"Partly, it is based on playing time. Although Nathan Ake isn't playing 50% of the [Manchester City] matches, he's part of this squad," Koeman explained. "You decide separately for each player in the squad. I felt I should select Matthijs based on what he was showing. He's been through a difficult period. "I've spoken to him and told him he didn't look confident in his actions, but now that's better. And his position at the club and the club's performance will always be important."
"The 26-year-old has been a key part of the Red Devils' revival in the Premier League this season, starting all 11 of his team's top-flight fixtures so far in 2025-26. Indeed, no player has won more aerial duels (40), made more clearances (59) or made more blocks (six) than De Ligt for United in the Premier League this campaign. He was also on target with a 96th-minute equaliser against Tottenham on Saturday, a result that has lifted Amorim's men up to seventh in the league table after 11 matches."
"Koeman's team are top of Group G and know a victory at Stadion Narodowy against Poland will seal their spot at next year's World Cup. And the Netherlands will be confident of sealing their spot at FIFA's flagship tournament that takes place across the United States, Canada and Mexico. That is because they are unbeaten in their last 14 meetings with Poland, last tasting defeat against them in May 1979 in a 2-0 loss at Stadion Slaski."
Ronald Koeman supports recalling Matthijs de Ligt to the Netherlands after recent displays for Ruben Amorim's Manchester United. De Ligt has replaced Inter's Stefan de Vrij for the final two World Cup qualifiers against Poland and Lithuania. The 26-year-old has started all 11 Premier League fixtures in 2025-26 and leads United in aerial duels (40), clearances (59) and blocks (six). He scored a 96th-minute equaliser against Tottenham, lifting United to seventh after 11 matches. Koeman cited playing time, improved confidence and club form as reasons for selection. The Netherlands top Group G and can seal qualification with a win over Poland.
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