Xavi: De Jong is a 'fundamental' player for Netherlands' philosophy

New Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernández has emphasized the crucial role Frenkie de Jong will play in his tactical plans, describing the Barcelona midfielder as "fundamental" to the team's philosophy. Hernández, who previously coached De Jong at Barcelona, expressed his eagerness to have the player back on the field.

De Jong has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury during the World Cup, and his recovery is the primary concern for both the national team and his club. Hernández stated that the most important thing is for De Jong to recover well, noting the player's motivation to join the Dutch squad upon his return.

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The most important thing about Frenkie is that he recovers well. He is with the injury, he is motivated with our arrival to the Dutch national team. I think he must be an important player for us just as he must be for Barça.

"I think he must be an important player for us, just as he must be for Barça," Hernández said during his presentation as the new national team manager. He reiterated his belief in De Jong's importance for the team's playing style, adding, "He seems like a fundamental player for our idea, for our philosophy, and hopefully, he can recover as soon as possible."

Hernández confirmed he is in contact with De Jong, who on Tuesday was seen training on the pitch for the first time since his injury. The coach's clear endorsement highlights De Jong's significance as the team prepares for upcoming fixtures.

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He seems like a fundamental player for our idea, for our philosophy, and hopefully, he can recover as soon as possible.