5 best players who will not play in the 2018 World Cup

Netherlands v Costa Rica: Quarter Final - 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil
Wesley Sneijder will be a notable absentee from the 2018 World Cup in Russia

#2 Arjen Robben (Netherlands):

Arjen Robben has taken his leave from the international scene
Arjen Robben has taken his leave from the international scene

Does the man need an introduction? When Netherlands failed to qualify for the second consecutive major tournament, all eyes turned to Arjen Robben. Some were rightfully disappointed to see a player of such class not featuring at the World Cup. But there was more heartbreak to follow, when he announced his retirement from international football.

Aged 34, Robben has had to deal with a number of injuries of late. But once fit and on the pitch, he barely looks his age. Who won't miss him, cutting back on his left foot, taking a touch or two, and curling the ball into the net? On full flow, Robben was a menace to opposition defenders.

Many believe that this may well be the start of the downfall of Dutch football. With no big name player coming through, and with Robben departing, it only sheds light on the lack of quality left in the squad.

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