Frenkie de Jong absent ahead of the Netherlands‑Germany duel

The Netherlands will have to do without Frenkie de Jong on Monday, in their final group match in the Nations League against Germany.

The 29‑year‑old midfielder has been dealing with minor physical issues since the match against Greece and will not travel to Berlin, the Dutch federation (KNVB) announced.

The Barcelona player had nevertheless shone on Friday during the Oranje's emphatic victory over the Greeks (7‑0), forming an effective partnership with Joey Veerman.

He had to stay in the dressing room at halftime, Xavi explaining that he was suffering from a back problem.

The KNVB did not provide further details, simply stating that his absence is a precautionary measure.

De Jong misses Germany match, Xavi must plan without a replacement

Replaced by Teun Koopmeiners against Greece, he will not be replaced in the squad, which will now comprise 23 players.

This unavailability comes as De Jong had just returned to action with Barça after a lateral knee ligament tear suffered during the World Cup.

Without one of their key assets, the Netherlands will still aim to retain the top spot in their group, three points ahead of Greece and Germany.

Netherlands dominates Greece and moves closer to the quarter-finals

Kick‑off of the match at Berlin's Olympiastadion will be at 20:45.