The Barcelona pair have lost their starting spots at Camp Nou this season.
Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal has admitted concerns over Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay’s reduced game time at Barcelona.
Both players were heavily linked with moves away from Barca this summer. De Jong was among Manchester United‘s top targets but preferred to stay at Camp Nou instead of joining Erik ten Hag’s project.
On the other hand, Robert Lewandowski’s arrival at Barcelona has significantly reduced Memphis Depay’s game time.
The Dutchman was close to joining Juventus, but his transfer collapsed after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s move to Chelsea.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Van Gaal said: “It’s true that many players called me in the transfer window. But I always ended every conversation with: ‘This is my advice, but you make your own decision.’
“I am happy with the outcome. But I would be happier if Frenkie and Memphis would play more than they are now.”
Netherlands are preparing to face Poland and Belgium in their last friendlies ahead of the World Cup. The Oranje sit at the top of the Group A4 of the Nations League, three points above Belgium as their closest rivals.
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