Real Madrid defender rewarded with second captain role with national team

Real Madrid defender rewarded with second captain role with national team The first international break of the season is finally here and while not many are looking forward to it, especially after a scintillating World Cup, the break will offer many national teams a chance to try out some new formulas while for others, it could be a complete reset. One of the teams staring towards a new formula is the Netherlands, which has hired former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez as their new head coach. As Xavi looks to take charge for the first time for the Oranje, he has made an important decision, as far as his team captains are concerned. Dumfries appointed second captain Dumfries will play a key leadership role under Xavi. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) As reported by AS , Xavi has named Real Madrid’s Denzel Dumfries as the Netherlands’ second captain for this international break, behind first-choice skipper Virgil van Dijk. The decision comes with Frenkie de Jong, previously the second captain, sidelined through injury, along with the absence of Memphis Depay. Nathan Ake and Cody Gakpo complete the leadership group behind Dumfries. Xavi explained his thinking on the matter, indicating the arrangement could yet change. “During this period, we will continue (as captains) with Denzel, Nathan, and Cody. And we will decide in November,” the coach said, while confirming that “Virgil will be our captain.” It represents a nice moment of recognition for Dumfries, who has enjoyed a strong start to life at Real Madrid following his summer move from Inter Milan. A landmark for Dumfries Xavi rates Dumfries quite highly due to his experience. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images) The appointment also carries historical significance for the Dutch full-back. With 76 caps and almost a decade of international experience, Dumfries could equal a record for captaincy held by legends such as Mark van Bommel, Dennis Bergkamp and Patrick Kluivert during this break. For Xavi, meanwhile, this marks his first international experience since leaving Barcelona, with the Netherlands facing Germany, Serbia and Greece in the opening rounds of the UEFA Nations League. The Spaniard was in confident mood ahead of the Germany clash, praising the intensity of his players and describing opposing coach Jurgen Klopp as “one of the best coaches in the world.” For Dumfries, producing a string of solid displays could go a long way in further enhancing his place in the Dutch national team while also helping him make a strong case to Jose Mourinho, when the season restarts.