Frenkie de Jong returns as Xavi names Netherlands squad for Nations League fixtures

Spain’s Xavi Hernandez has announced his Netherlands squad for November’s Nations League matches against Greece and Germany.

The Netherlands will face Greece and Germany in matchdays five and six of the competition as they look to maintain their position at the top of Group B. They have collected eight points from their opening four matches, winning two and drawing two, and lead Greece on goal difference.

The main selection news is the return of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who has recovered from the serious knee injury he suffered at the most recent World Cup. De Jong has since returned to action and made three appearances for Barcelona.

Steven Bergwijn, the Al-Ittihad winger, remains absent from the squad. Xavi has continued to select Al-Hilal forward Crysencio Summerville and Al-Qadsiah midfielder Tijjani Reijnders.

The Netherlands’ Nations League match against Greece is scheduled for 13 November 2026. The squad will also prepare for the meeting with Germany during the same international camp.

Supporters are hoping the Netherlands can return to their previous level under Xavi, who has adopted an approach influenced by Dutch great Johan Cruyff. His side are expected to focus on positional possession and maintaining pressure on opponents for sustained periods.

Netherlands squad

Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen, Mark Flekken, Robin Roefs.

Defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Denzel Dumfries, Lutsharel Geertruida, Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, Ian Maatsen, Jurrien Timber, Quinten Timber.

Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, Teun Koopmeiners, Tijjani Reijnders, Joey Veerman, Justin Kluivert, Guus Til, Givairo Zechiel.

Forwards: Cody Gakpo, Ruben van Bommel, Brian Brobbey, Noa Lang, Donyell Malen, Mexx Meerdink, Crysencio Summerville.