As the Netherlands prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, much of their hopes rest on the fitness and influence of midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who remains the heartbeat of the Dutch national team.
Widely regarded as one of the most gifted players of his generation, De Jong has endured a difficult spell with injuries in recent years. An ankle problem ruled him out of Euro 2024, while a hamstring injury caused him to miss the Netherlands’ international fixtures in March.
Despite earning 64 caps for his country, the 29-year-old’s international tally could have been significantly higher without those setbacks. Dutch fans will be hoping he remains fit ahead of next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Operating in a deep midfield role, De Jong dictates the tempo of matches with his composure, vision and precise passing. His ability to control possession and launch attacks makes him one of the most important players in Ronald Koeman’s squad.
Concerns resurfaced when De Jong missed several matches for FC Barcelona during their successful La Liga campaign. However, Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman played down fears over the midfielder’s condition.
“We are not worried, although it would have been better had he played,” Koeman said.
Reflecting on his lengthy absence through injury, De Jong described it as the most challenging period of his career.
“For someone like me, that is eternity. It was the toughest period of my life,” he said.
The midfielder has since returned to action and helped the Netherlands secure qualification for the World Cup. Last month, he also became the Dutch player with the most appearances for Barcelona, underlining his importance to the Spanish giants.
With the Netherlands boasting a talented squad, De Jong believes the team has the potential to achieve something special on football’s biggest stage.
“You have got even more desire to be there and to get the most out of it. Since my time with the Dutch team, I think we now have the squad with the most potential. But we also need to make sure we become the best team,” he told The Guardian.
For De Jong, the 2026 World Cup offers another opportunity to cement his place among the greatest Dutch footballers of his generation.
