Frenkie de Jong has stressed that the Netherlands are highly respected outside their own country, saying he notices it clearly when speaking with his Barcelona teammates about major national teams.
The midfielder added that the Dutch are not an easy team to face, pointing to their pace, physical strength, ability to keep possession and threat on transitions.
His comments come before the Netherlands face Japan in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F match, with Sweden and Tunisia also in the group.
The Dutch are looking for a strong start to confirm their ambition, having reached three World Cup finals in their history without lifting the trophy.
De Jong’s role remains central to Ronald Koeman’s system, both in building attacks and controlling the tempo against Japan’s expected pressure.