Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez discussed Frenkie de Jong’s tactical role and value after Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 at the Metropolitano.
De Jong moved to right-back
During the second half, Hansi Flick shifted De Jong into a right-back role. Xavi said: “Yesterday against Atletico, De Jong played as a lateral. It is not what I have in mind for him, although I also placed him as a centre-back at Barca. But what I am clear about is that Frenkie is a 'top' player who can play in any position, as a '6', as an '8', he is 'top' as a player.”
Xavi says De Jong is underestimated
Xavi said: “Yes, I think he is underestimated, but not by the coaches and his teammates. You have to listen to the people who are with him every day, because if you ask who the best midfielder is, they say Frenkie.”
Comments on creative partnerships
Addressing the potential for De Jong to coexist with Joey Veerman, Xavi said: “It happened to me at FC Barcelona. Many people said that Iniesta and I could not play together.”
Netherlands group position
The Netherlands sit top of Group B with eight points from their first four matches. They will host Greece on Friday and visit Germany on Monday. Germany have five points.
