Xavi praises De Jong while the Dutchman questions his assessment

In MADRID, SPAIN, on 08 NOVEMBER, Frenkie de Jong of FC Barcelona celebrated his team's victory after the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match against Atletico Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitan stadium.

Response to Xavi

The Dutchman was questioned in November about Xavi's recent comments, who described the midfielder as “undervalued”.

Xavi praised the player on Monday as they reunited in the Netherlands national team call‑up, this time in the international context.

De Jong was at a press conference on Tuesday in Spain and was asked what he thought of Xavi's remarks.

In his statements, he said that everyone has their own perspective and that there is no single truth about whether he is undervalued.

He added that, as a player, he may be quicker to sense a lack of appreciation and that he perceives that feeling in some people.

According to him, very few spectators watch the full ninety minutes and many do not understand what happens on the pitch, the decisions, or whether a play is good or not.

He asserted that judging football by goals and assists is the easiest part, but in his case that is much less applicable, although anyone can see if he is a good player.

The midfielder has returned to action with Barca recently after missing the start of the season due to an injury.

He is now ready to play his first minutes with the Netherlands national team since the World Cup when they face Greece on Friday.