Xavi plays down Roma’s Malen concerns: ‘I think he is fine, the injury isn’t serious’

Xavi plays down Roma’s Malen concerns: ‘I think he is fine, the injury isn’t serious’ Netherlands coach Xavi believes Donyell Malen’s knee problem is minor, though his comments on the Roma forward’s late withdrawal carried a slight edge. With quotes via Calciomercato , Malen pulled out of the Oranje squad for fixtures against Germany, Serbia twice and Greece at the last moment, and Xavi was left to explain his absence. “It’s a shame because Donyell is in excellent form,” the Catalan said. “He had to say no at the last moment, but football is like that. In my opinion Donyell is fine. I don’t know how long it will take him to recover, but the injury isn’t serious.” ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Donyell Malen of Roma gestures during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on September 05, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images) Roma lose three to the international break The phrasing has been read in Italy as a subtle dig, with Xavi suggesting he considers Malen fit enough while accepting the player’s decision. Either way, the reassurance on the severity will be welcome at Trigoria. Malen is one of three Roma players who stayed behind. Captain Bryan Cristante withdrew from Roberto Mancini’s Italy squad with lower back pain, while Wesley pulled out of Brazil duty with a strain in his right thigh picked up in the 2-2 draw with Inter. In Malen’s absence, Xavi has called up Brian Brobbey, Noa Lang, Cody Gakpo, Justin Kluivert, Crysencio Summerville and PSV’s van Bommel in attack. Gian Piero Gasperini will hope to have all three back for a demanding return: Como in Serie A, followed by Real Madrid in the Champions League.