Frenkie de Jong has been recalled to the Netherlands national squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Germany, marking his first appearance since the World Cup. The announcement was made on Friday, as the Dutch team prepares for crucial fixtures that could impact their standing in Group A2.
De Jong, who plays for FC Barcelona, missed the initial four matches of the Nations League due to injury. During his absence, the Netherlands managed to secure eight points, placing them level with Greece at the top of the group, and three points ahead of Germany. His return is seen as a significant boost for the team as they aim to solidify their position in the tournament.
New head coach Xavi Hernandez has also included Aston Villa’s Ian Maatsen in the squad, who previously earned his first cap in March 2025. The squad sees the return of Justin Kluivert and Donyell Malen, who were replaced by Mexx Meerdink and Guus Til in the last international window due to injuries. However, Nathan Ake, Jeremie Frimpong, Ryan Gravenberch, and Jorrel Hato will miss out due to fitness issues, while Lazio’s Kenneth Taylor has been dropped from the lineup.
Upcoming Matches
The Netherlands will host Greece in Amsterdam on November 13, followed by a match against Germany in Berlin three days later. These games are critical as the team seeks to advance in the Nations League.
Full Squad Announcement
Goalkeepers: Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland), Bart Verbruggen (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Defenders: Denzel Dumfries (Real Madrid), Lutsharel Geertruida (PSV Eindhoven), Ian Maatsen (Aston Villa), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Jan Paul van Hecke (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Tijjani Reijnders (Al-Qadsiah), Quinten Timber (Crystal Palace), Guus Til (PSV Eindhoven), Joey Veerman (Borussia Dortmund), Gjivai Zechiel (Feyenoord)
Forwards: Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Ruben van Bommel (PSV Eindhoven), Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Noa Lang (Napoli), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Mexx Meerdink (AZ Alkmaar), Crysencio Summerville (Al Hilal)
According to Gulf Times, De Jong’s return is anticipated to enhance the Netherlands’ chances in these pivotal matches.
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