Xavi Hernández aims for top spot with Netherlands changes vs Serbia
Netherlands host Serbia in Eindhoven for a Nations League double; Serbia are winless and already lost 1-2 in Belgrade, with a possible leaders’ swing if Greece drop points.
Netherlands, led by Xavi Hernández, host Serbia in Eindhoven as the Nations League’s first quadruple matchday gets underway. The Dutch side want a second win after beating Serbia 1-2 in Belgrade a week ago, coming off one victory and two draws from Xavi’s first three games in charge.
Xavi expects rotation after the heavy schedule. He said: “four matches in a very short period is too much for the players… but the calendar is as it is, we have to adapt,” and he hinted at changes from the XI that drew 2-2 in Thessaloniki: “we normally want to refresh the team a bit… when you play every two or three days, you have to make some changes.”
- Serbia still have no points in the competition.
- Virgil van Dijk could play his 100th international match, though Xavi avoided confirming the starter and noted it “could be an emotional day for Virgil.”
- Reijnders and Gravenberch are also possible newcomers.
Denzel Dumfries echoed the complaint: “It’s a lot… and you’re away from your club for a long time.” As Mundo Deportivo reports, a Netherlands win could help them challenge for first place if Greece fail to beat Germany at home.
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