Netherlands debutant immediately makes a gigantic impression on head coach Xavi Hernández: ‘A top player, this is what we need’

Mexx Meerdink and Ruben van Bommel both made their Netherlands debuts on Thursday, and both caught the eye against Germany, including that of head coach Xavi Hernández.

Meerdink came on in the first half for the injured Brian Brobbey, while Van Bommel entered in the closing stages. The PSV forward then produced a magnificent assist for Cody Gakpo in stoppage time, helping the Netherlands snatch a 1-1 draw.

For Xavi, there was no doubt about Van Bommel's contribution. "This shows character. It was his first match today for the Netherlands and he made the difference. Cody too, of course," said the Spanish head coach, again watching the footage of the 1-1.

He was just as emphatic in his verdict on Van Bommel. "This is what we need. This is a top player," Xavi said. "I’m very happy for Ruben. We believe in him and he showed it. He deserved it too, because he has a great personality."

That personality, in Xavi's view, was not only in the superb outside-of-the-foot cross, but also in the moment that came before it: winning the ball back. "He won the ball. Then came the great cross."

Meerdink also left Xavi delighted. "He did brilliantly. It’s frustrating for Brian (Brobbey, ed.), because he battled hard with the German defenders. But Mexx did brilliantly too."

He rounded off by praising the striker's work off the ball. "He worked hard for the team, sacrificed himself. He put a lot of pressure on the goalkeeper, he must be exhausted now. But I’m very happy for them," Xavi concluded.