Xavi sees striker in Malen: 'I think he can perform for the Netherlands'

Xavi backs Malen to perform for Netherlands as a striker, despite the Roma forward having scored no international goals this year.

Donyell Malen has impressed as a prolific centre-forward at AS Roma since his winter move from PSV, but has yet to score for the Netherlands in 2024. New Dutch coach Xavi has made clear he sees Malen's best position as striker, not right winger as Ronald Koeman often deployed him.

Malen missed the previous international break through injury but has returned to the squad with 12 goals for Roma. Xavi declined to confirm whether Malen will start Friday's match against Greece but expressed confidence in the 27-year-old's ability to deliver at international level.

"The best thing we can do is give him trust," Xavi said. "Explain what we expect from him as a striker. He can attack spaces, he understands what's asked of him. I think he can perform for the Netherlands."

The Netherlands have other striker options in Brian Brobbey and Mexx Meerdink, both of whom have scored for Oranje in 2024.