Xavi boosts Meerdink and the youth in the Netherlands national team
At De Kuip Stadium, the young forward Mexx Meerdink, 23, and player of AZ Alkmaar, made his debut as a starter for the Netherlands national team and scored a brace, becoming Xavi Hernández's surprise.
Xavi and the Bet on Youth
According to the EFE agency, journalist Marc Canosa recalled that Xavi Hernández had already shown at FC Barcelona that he does not hesitate to give opportunities to young footballers he deems ready. At Barcelona, the coach launched Lamine Yamal, Fermín López and Pau Cubarsí, among others. He now replicates that policy with the Netherlands national team.
The coach, from Terrassa, took over as manager of the "the Oranje" in August, replacing Ronald Koeman. In the first matches, the team drew 1‑1 against Germany and won 1‑2 against Serbia, the first victory of this new era. The results place the team above expectations, according to analysts.
Debut and Brace of Mexx Meerdink
One of Xavi's first decisions was to include Mexx Meerdink, a 23‑year‑old forward from AZ Alkmaar, who had never played for the national team, not even at youth levels. Meerdink made his debut last Thursday against Germany, coming on in the 35th minute after Brian Brobbey's injury. “I could see Brian limping and I thought: ‘Is it going to happen now?’”, the forward explained, adding that he had to warm up quickly.
Last Sunday, Meerdink returned to the lineup as a starter in the away victory over Serbia and scored the two goals for the "the Oranje". His brace confirmed the confidence Xavi had placed in him and marked his first match as a starter.
Xavi praised the forward, saying: “Mexx is a player who works a lot and understands how we want to play”. He also emphasized that, although his goals were decisive, Meerdink contributed to the team far more than those two goals.
In another curious fact, Rio Ngumoha entered the history books of English football. Xavi's bet on youth seems to be redefining the Netherlands' style of play and could influence its future schedule.