De Jong's return to Netherlands squad costs Kenneth Taylor his place

De Jong recalled to Netherlands squad for Nations League after recovering from injury; Kenneth Taylor left out despite strong form at Lazio.

Frenkie De Jong has returned to prominence at Barcelona following months sidelined by injury, impressing in a recent match against Atlético Madrid where he played as a left-back. His recovery has caught the attention of Netherlands manager Xavi Hernández, who has included him in the squad for upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and Germany, alongside Justin Kluivert.

However, De Jong's inclusion necessarily meant leaving another player out. Kenneth Taylor, the Lazio midfielder, was omitted from the squad. Xavi acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, saying it was "very difficult to leave him at home" and comparing it to the earlier tough call to exclude Memphis Depay.

Xavi offered reassurance that Taylor's omission is only for this international break, not a permanent rejection, and suggested the midfielder could return if he continues performing well.