Xavi: De Jong substitution against Greece was precautionary

Xavi revealed Frenkie de Jong's first-half substitution against Greece was simply a precaution, and one the Netherlands could take during a dominant Nations League outing.

The Netherlands kept their Nations League quarter-final fate in their own hands in Group A2, with their 7-0 rout of Greece moving them three points clear at the top of the table ahead of their final-day showdown with Germany.

They did most of the damage in the first half as Tijjani Reijnders netted a hat-trick before the break, with Crysencio Summerville and Jurrien Timber netting on either side of his treble.

Timber then completed his brace after the break, with Donyell Malen adding more late gloss to the scoreline in Xavi's most comprehensive victory in charge of the team.

De Jong captained the side in the absence of the injured Virgil van Dijk, and played the first half – making his first international appearance since the World Cup – but was substituted at half-time.

Xavi was not too concerned, though, and remains hopeful the midfielder will be available to face Germany on Monday.

"Frenkie came to see me even before the match," Xavi said.

"He was feeling discomfort in his back. At half-time, we thought it was best to substitute him.

"It's nothing serious. Everyone will be available on Monday."

Only Joey Veerman (96 in 90 minutes) recorded more passes against Greece than De Jong (80 in 45 minutes); he is the first Netherlands midfielder on record (since 2013) with 80+ passes and such a high passing accuracy (98.8%).

And the 29-year-old also assuaged fears of his fitness.

"It was 5-0, and I've just returned from an injury, of course, so that was fine," De Jong said. "As a precaution.

"It's not like I have a lot of match rhythm yet. And with all the travelling, the internationals, and recent history as well, of course, there was no need to take any risks."

Malen, meanwhile, netted his first Netherlands goal of 2026 (eighth appearance), despite having scored more goals than any other player in the top five European leagues in 2026 (22 for Roma).

The striker revealed he had not been worried about his form, but credited Xavi with boosting his confidence.

"I haven't been very concerned with it; it's just that you're saying it now," Malen said.

"I've spoken with him [Xavi] a lot. We watched images of my qualities and how I can implement them. And we also looked at things I need to do better. We are very busy with it.

"Every player needs confidence at a certain level, so do I. I just have to create my chances and do my thing."