De Jong discusses Xavi's Netherlands role and injury recovery with Barcelona

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 31, 2026, 10:40 AM

Last updated Oct 31, 2026

De Jong discusses Xavi's Netherlands role and injury recovery with Barcelona
Summary

Frenkie de Jong spoke with Dutch broadcaster NOS about Xavi Hernandez's recent appointment as the Netherlands manager. De Jong expressed surprise at the decision, noting the rarity of foreign coaches for the national team. He looks forward to working with Xavi, emphasizing their previous successful collaboration at Barcelona. De Jong also reflected on his recovery from a knee injury sustained during the World Cup, which kept him out for nearly four months before his return against Real Madrid. He is expected to play tonight against Alaves, potentially as a makeshift center-back.

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  • •De Jong was surprised by Xavi's appointment as Netherlands manager.
  • •De Jong missed the previous international break due to injury.
  • •He returned from injury against Real Madrid last weekend.
  • •De Jong may play as a center-back against Alaves tonight.
  • •Xavi's coaching style aligns with De Jong's football philosophy.
Latest Updates
  • 10:40 AMYahoo Sports — De Jong talks Xavi’s Netherlands appointment and difficult Barcelona injury spell: ‘Was a little surprised’
What they're saying
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In a recent interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong revealed that club legend Xavi Hernandez called him prior to being appointed as the new Net...

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