De Jong: Messi never raised his voice; my leadership style is between his and Van Dijk’s
Barcelona and Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong says he feels good after returning from injury, which increased his desire to get back to football. He made the remarks while with the national team during the international break.
Barcelona and Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong said he feels good after returning from injury, which increased his desire to get back to football. He made the remarks while with the national team during the international break.
De Jong discussed the possibility of wearing the Netherlands captain’s armband in the absence of the injured Virgil van Dijk, explaining that the decision rests with the coach, but that it is a possibility. He added that Van Dijk is the team’s leading communicator, while he believes he can set an example through his conduct and professionalism.
De Jong said he had seen Lionel Messi lead without raising his voice, and said his leadership style lies between Messi’s and Van Dijk’s. He added that wearing the armband this week would be an honour. He also praised Xavi Hernández’s clarity in his approach and what he had noticed of Xavi’s influence on build-up play.
According to the source, the Netherlands are preparing to face Greece on Friday, followed by Germany on Monday.