Frenkie de Jong named Netherlands captain for UEFA Nations League matches

Frenkie de Jong has been appointed captain of the Netherlands national team for upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Germany. Regular captain Virgil van Dijk withdrew due to injury, prompting head coach Xavi Hernandez to select De Jong for the role. Xavi emphasized De Jong’s understanding of the team’s playing style and his value in maintaining possession under pressure. De Jong, who noted that he prefers to lead by example rather than verbally, expressed his readiness to take on the leadership role. The Netherlands will face Greece on November 13 and Germany on November 16, both crucial fixtures for qualification in Group A2.

• 8:00 AMYahoo Sports — Netherlands coach Xavi confirms Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong will captain the national team: ‘Very important for us’