Key Takeaways
- Xavi Simons faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a serious knee injury.
- Kenneth Taylor has become the favourite to take his place in the Dutch squad.
- The Lazio star has not featured for his country since March 2025.
Ronald Koeman may turn to Kenneth Taylor after Xavi Simons picked up a devastating knee problem. The Tottenham Hotspur attacker looks set to miss the global tournament. This forces the Netherlands boss to search for fresh options.
Taylor currently plays for SS Lazio. He moved to the Italian club in January. Reports from TuttoMercatoWeb suggest the coach views the midfielder as a solid choice to fill the gap.
The 22-year-old has settled quickly into life in Serie A. He can operate in the centre of the park or push further forward. This flexibility makes him ideal for Koeman’s system.
Several big names have already secured their tickets. Ryan Gravenberch, Frenkie de Jong and Cody Gakpo are certain to travel. This leaves only a handful of places for the remaining hopefuls.
Taylor must still fight for his spot. Justin Kluivert, Crysencio Summerville, Guus Til, Noa Lang and Georginio Wijnaldum are also in the running.
The former Ajax youth last wore the orange shirt over a year ago. He featured against Spain in a Nations League clash in March 2025. A return now depends on his displays at club level.
With Simons unavailable, Taylor’s form in Rome could earn him a seat on the plane.