Xavi backs Feyenoord's gem Gjivai Zechiël in his debut for Netherlands

Xavi Hernández's first test as manager of the Netherlands national team arrives with a call‑up that includes the young Feyenoord midfielder Gjivai Zechiël, born in 2004 in Rotterdam and of Surinamese descent, a talent the Spanish coach wants to try out in the 2026/27 Nations League.

Zechiël, whose full name is Gjivai Dane Zechiël, has become one of Feyenoord's emerging gems, a club this season managed by Gio van Bronckhorst, a former teammate of Xavi at Barcelona. Born in 2004 in Rotterdam and of Surinamese descent, he is already considered one of the big names to watch in this first international break that the 2026/27 season offers. His development has been rapid, and he already stands out among the most eye‑catching midfielders in the Eredivisie.

The player combines the intensity of a box‑to‑box pivot with great ball‑driving and construction ability. In addition, he possesses solid tactical reading and brings physical presence, standing out in aerial duels despite being only 1.80 m tall, which makes him atypical for his position. His versatility allows him to get into the box and add goal numbers, complementing his defensive work.

Season statistics

In the 2026/27 Eredivisie, Zechiël has featured in seven matches, scoring five goals and providing four assists, which adds up to nine direct contributions from midfield. These numbers reflect an explosive start for a player of just 22 years.

Xavi Hernandez reports Frenkie de Jong's progress in Zeist

With Zechiël's arrival, Xavi shows his intention to experiment with youngsters who can rejuvenate the ‘the Oranje’ and cover for the absent first‑choice pivot, Frenkie de Jong, currently injured. The coach, a former elite midfielder, seems to want to shape the youngster as a new pillar of the midfield. The call‑up makes clear that the Spaniard has already selected, or at least wants to try, Zechiël as a possible replacement in the pivot role.

The list also includes established names such as Ryan Gravenberch, who is usually a starter, as well as Marco Veerman, Tijjani Reijnders and Teun Koopmeiners, giving the coach several options in midfield. De Jong's absence opens up space for these players and the newcomers to add dynamism to Xavi's system.

Another rookie on the list

The son of Ruben van Bommel, a 22‑year‑old left winger who measures around 1.93 m, has also been called up; he stands out for his speed, swagger and a physicality unusual for his position, and has earned prominence at PSV Eindhoven.

Xavi Hernández reports hope for Frenkie de Jong's return in November

Xavi's appointment, chosen among candidates such as Slot and Guardiola, pursues an offensive and constructive style inspired by Johan Cruyff's philosophy. With only two debutants, the call‑up suggests that the national team is looking to revitalize its play by bringing in young talent. The hope is that the ‘the Oranje’ regains the playing ability that gave it prestige in earlier eras.