Xavi Hernandez sends encouraging message to Barcelona star – ‘He is a very important player’ | OneFootball

Xavi Hernandez has spoken positively about Frenkie de Jong during his presentation as the new Netherlands national team coach.

The Barcelona icon and former manager took over the Dutch national team following Ronald Koeman’s exit after the 2026 World Cup.

He was officially presented today (h/t Diario AS), where he was asked about a number of things, and he made clear that the Barça midfield star is an important figure for both club and country.

Xavi: De Jong is motivated

Xavi is confident about de Jong. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The former Barça coach knows De Jong particularly well from their time together at the Camp Nou, and his comments show the trust he has in the midfielder.

“Frenkie is motivated by our arrival,” Xavi said during his presentation.

The 46-year-old then expressed hope that the midfielder can return as soon as possible.

“Hopefully he can recover as soon as possible. He is a very important player both for Barca and for the national team,” he added.

The assessment is hardly surprising given De Jong’s quality and experience, but it is an arm around the shoulder at a time when the 29-year-old is going through a difficult period.

Barcelona future remains under scrutiny

Frenkie suffered a medial collateral ligament tear during the World Cup and is currently recovering from it, keen to re-establish himself in Hansi Flick’s plans.

The arrival of Rodri has changed the landscape of the Barcelona midfield, with competition from Pedri, Gavi and Marc Bernal, among others.

Once he returns, the Dutchman will have to fight hard for his place, and there are even talks of a potential departure before the end of the window.

However, those transfer talks feel far-fetched.

De Jong attempted to return to training on the pitch without the ball earlier today but still felt some discomfort, suggesting he is still a while away from returning.

Having opted against surgery to cut short the recovery time, the Barça midfielder will be keen to be available as soon as he can.

De Jong to be a key component in Xavi’s Netherlands setup. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Xavi still believes in him

Xavi’s words matter because few coaches know De Jong’s strengths better.

During his time at Barcelona, the former midfielder repeatedly trusted the Netherlands international in different roles and understood what he could offer in possession, build-up and progression through midfield.

That belief clearly remains. Xavi still thinks he has a lot to offer to Barça and the national team, and his words should serve as motivation.

As for Barça, they will hope that their midfield leader returns to full fitness and makes his way back into Flick’s plans.

For now, everyone is eagerly anticipating the Dutchman making a full recovery, and it remains to be seen how the dynamics shape up once everyone is available.