The international break is fast approaching, and Manchester United fans are keeping a close eye on how their squad members are involved with their national teams.
World Cup qualifying fixtures always generate attention for clubs, particularly when key players are unavailable for selection, affecting squad rotation and team preparation.
Clubs like Manchester United have had to manage player fitness carefully, especially following a hectic start to the Premier League season and recent cup disappointments to Grimsby Town.
Several United players have been linked with transfers or loan moves during this period, meaning international call-ups can have added significance for their future at Old Trafford.
Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt has been called up to the Netherlands national team, as announced via X, for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Poland and Lithuania.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The centre-back’s inclusion gives the Oranje a strong presence at the back, and it also reflects his continued importance at club level for Manchester United following his transfer.
Meanwhile, two other United players have not received call-ups for the Dutch national team.
Forward Joshua Zirkzee has been left out, as has left-back Tyrell Malacia.
Malacia’s absence comes amid reports that he is set to move to La Liga side Elche, with a deal potentially closing before the end of the transfer window.
For Manchester United, De Ligt’s international involvement emphasises his growing influence as a key defensive figure, while Malacia’s potential departure adds further context to the club’s ongoing squad adjustments.
Fans will be eager to see how both players perform in the coming weeks, particularly with United seeking to find consistency under Ruben Amorim.
The situation also highlights United’s broader challenges in maintaining squad depth while balancing international call-ups and ongoing transfer activity.
As the World Cup qualifiers unfold, Matthijs de Ligt will have a chance to solidify his place with the Netherlands, while Malacia’s focus may increasingly shift to his potential move to Spain.
𝗢𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗝𝗘 – SEPTEMBER 2025 🦁
Next week: World Cup qualifiers vs. Poland & Lithuania! 🌍#NothingLikeOranje pic.twitter.com/v2KNSCqzZD
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) August 29, 2025
