Frenkie de Jong is the engine of the Netherlands midfield, and his absence has been felt often over the last two years. The 29-year-old Barcelona star missed Euro 2024 due to an ankle injury and sat out recent internationals with a hamstring tear. Now fit, he brings a crucial extra dimension as the Dutch prepare for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
De Jong orchestrates play from deep, dictating tempo and directing attack with incisive passing. His value to both club and country is clear: last month he became the Dutch player with the most appearances for Barcelona (293), surpassing legends like Johan Cruyff and Ronald Koeman.
Despite setbacks, De Jong helped the Netherlands qualify for the World Cup. "We now have the squad with the most potential," he said. "But we also need to make sure we become the best team."