Frenkie de Jong ready for Netherlands comeback after 433 days
Barcelona midfielder has not played for his country since June 2021
The 25-year-old is in line to make his return against Wales on Thursday
Frenkie de Jong is set to make his long-awaited return to the Netherlands team after 433 days out.
The Barcelona midfielder has not played for his country since June 2021, when he was part of the team that reached the last 16 of the European Championship.
De Jong has been in impressive form for Barcelona this season, and his return to the Netherlands team will be a major boost for manager Louis van Gaal.
The Netherlands face Wales in a friendly on Thursday, before taking on Belgium in the Nations League on Sunday.
De Jong is likely to start both games, and he will be keen to make a positive impact on his return to the international stage.
De Jong's absence from the Netherlands team
De Jong's absence from the Netherlands team has been a major blow for Van Gaal.
The 25-year-old is one of the most talented midfielders in the world, and his creativity and passing range would have been a major asset to the team.
However, Van Gaal has been forced to make do without De Jong, and the team has struggled in his absence.
The Netherlands have only won one of their last five matches, and they were knocked out of the World Cup qualifiers in March.
De Jong's return will be a major boost for the team, and he will be hoping to help them get back on track.
De Jong's form for Barcelona
De Jong has been in impressive form for Barcelona this season.
He has made 28 appearances in all competitions, and he has scored three goals and provided four assists.
De Jong has been a key part of Barcelona's team this season, and he has helped them to win the Copa del Rey and reach the semi-finals of the Europa League.
His form for Barcelona has earned him a recall to the Netherlands team, and he will be hoping to continue his good form for his country.
De Jong's role in the Netherlands team
De Jong is likely to play a key role in the Netherlands team.
He is a versatile player who can play in a number of positions in midfield.
He is likely to be used as a deep-lying playmaker, where he can use his passing range and vision to create chances for his teammates.
De Jong is also a very good tackler, and he will be able to help the team to win back possession.
He is a major asset to the Netherlands team, and his return will be a major boost.
