Statistics prove Veerman right, says Xavi

Veerman leads Nations League in chances created with 20 across five matches, four more than England's Bellingham.

Joey Veerman has been in outstanding form for the Netherlands in the Nations League, leading the competition in chances created. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has set up 20 opportunities for teammates across five matches, four more than Jude Bellingham of England in second place.

Veerman's standout performance came in Friday's 7-0 victory over Greece, where he created five chances despite recording just one assist. He has now created five or more chances in multiple matches during this Nations League campaign, including the away fixture against Serbia. Against Germany (home) and Greece (away) he created four chances each, while the home match with Serbia saw him create two.

The statistics also explain Veerman's high pass volume among Nations League midfielders, with 370 passes sent—second only to England's Elliot Anderson. However, Veerman's pass accuracy sits at 88 percent compared to Anderson and Switzerland's Remo Freuler, who both exceed 90 percent, reflecting his willingness to take risks in possession.