Frenkie de Jong is back in the Dutch national team jersey. After 433 days away and a series of injuries to his right ankle that put his international career on hold, the FC Barcelona midfielder has been called up again by Ronald Koeman. The announcement is a moment of hope for both the player and the "Oranje," as his return brings experience and quality to the midfield in the decisive UEFA Nations League matches against Hungary and Bosnia. 

De Jong's last appearance for the national team was on September 10, 2023, in a Euro qualifier against Ireland, where the Netherlands won 1-2. Since then, the player has faced a true ordeal of injuries. Persistent ankle issues kept him out of the Euro and many key matches with Barça, affecting his consistency and performance in both competitions. However, the Dutchman’s return is a sign that his physical issues might finally be behind him.

The 2023-24 season was particularly challenging for De Jong. Despite efforts to regain his form and take certain risks, setbacks were constant. In an April match against Real Madrid, he suffered another ankle injury, which kept him off the field for 163 days. Finally, on October 1 of this year, he reappeared in Barça’s win over Young Boys, a positive sign that he was ready to regain his competitive rhythm.

With the Netherlands currently in second place in Group 3 of the League A in the UEFA Nations League League A, De Jong’s presence is a major asset for Koeman, who aims to secure a spot in the next round. The Dutch team will face Hungary at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam on November 16, followed by Bosnia at the Bilino Polje Stadium on November 19. Both matches are crucial for the Dutch team’s hopes as they continue to compete for a place in the tournament. 

De Jong’s return represents not only a tactical boost but also a motivational factor for the team. The trust Koeman places in him reflects just how important De Jong is to the “Clockwork Orange” project, especially at this decisive moment.