The substitute that Xavi chooses to cover the loss of Van Dijk

ByDavid Mitchell

Xavi Hernandez, selector Netherlandsaccess to the quarterfinals of the Nations League will be played in the coming days. The ‘oranje’, leader of group A2, receives on Friday Greece in Amsterdam and on Monday he will visit Germany in Berlin with the first two places in the group at stake.

Compared to his first call-up, Xavi recovers basic players such as Frenkie de Jong, Donyell Malen and Justin Kluivertbut on the other hand it has significant losses, such as Nathan Aké, Jeremie Frimpong, Ryan Gravenberch and Jorrel Hato, who in the last few hours have been joined by none other than Captain Virgil van Dijk and the scorer Brian Brobbey.

Seep van den Berg, in his first training session with the Dutch national team

After announcing on Monday the Netherlands Football Federation (KNVB) these last two absences, Xavi decided today to make up for one of them with the call of the Sepp van den Berg. The central Brentford24, replaces Van Dijk in what is his first appearance with the ‘Oranje’.

The Netherlands is the leader with eight points in its first four games under the direction of Xavi, all of them corresponding to group A2 of the Nations League. A victory this Friday against Greecewhich also has 8 points, would ensure one of the two places for the round of 16 without waiting for the last day. Germany add 5 points and Serbia, none, is bottom.

David Mitchell
David Mitchell

As a passionate sports journalist with over a decade of experience, I strive to uncover the heart and soul behind every game. Supported by a dedicated team of fellow enthusiasts and storytellers, I am committed to delivering insightful and engaging content that connects fans worldwide. Together, we celebrate the victories, challenges, and unifying spirit of sports through every article we craft.