Xavi Hernandez Talks About Luuk De Jong’s Potential to Play against Napoli

DBasia.news – Barcelona coach, Xavi Hernandez, said that Luuk de Jong is ready to appear against Napoli in the first leg of the Europa League playoffs, Friday (18/2).

La Blaugrana are preparing to return to the European stage, but now for the second level, having only finished third in Champions League Group E in the first half of the season.

However, the opponents to be faced at this level are also difficult, with Italian giants Napoli waiting.

Barcelona only capitalized on a 2-2 draw from their previous game against Espanyol at the weekend, with Luuk de Jong emerging as a savior with a header in the last minute of injury time.

De Jong has, surprisingly, been Barca’s mainstay in attack, and has won five straight points for La Blaugrana this season.

His recent brilliance has made De Jong the favorite to start for the match against Napoli in the middle of this week, and Xavi also praised him, especially in terms of his professionalism.

“His professionalism, the way he trains, dedication, attitude, always ready to compete; he is professional, he is a very professional person,” Xavi told his press conference.

“Then he goes on the pitch and shows it. The way he trains shows on the pitch, and he shows it.

“He scored that goal [against Espanyol] to give us a draw. He was able to get into the opposition area and play well, get away with the ball. I’m sure he’s ready, no doubt about it.”