Netherlands head coach Xavi is determined to solve the enduring mystery of Donyell Malen’s international form as the striker prepares for a fresh start with the national team, according to Yahoo Sports.
Despite a sensational goal-scoring run in Serie A, the forward has struggled to replicate that clinical edge when wearing the Oranje shirt.
Xavi is now making it his personal mission to ignite the striker’s potential on the world stage, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude and self-belief.
The national team boss explained to NOS: “We are trying to give him confidence.”
He added that the player wants to show his potential.
Xavi stated: “Donyell is important to me and he must be important for the team.”
The manager noted that Malen is doing so well in Italy and that the squad must take advantage of that form.
The coach also observed: “Of course, he can also play on the right, but for me, he is a striker.”
Malen’s transformation at AS Roma has been remarkable since Gian Piero Gasperini identified him as a bargain signing in January, per Goal.
The Italian coach recognized that the player had been misunderstood during his time at Aston Villa and immediately restored him to a central striking role.
Gasperini previously noted that the former PSV man is deadly in front of goal when played through the middle.
This theory has been proven correct by a staggering run of form in 2026.
In the current calendar year, Malen has netted 22 goals, placing him ahead of global superstars like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe across Europe’s top divisions.
The struggle to find Malen’s best position has plagued successive Netherlands managers, leading to a stop-start international career.
Frank de Boer famously preferred Wout Weghorst during Euro 2021, while Louis van Gaal omitted him entirely from the 2022 World Cup squad.
Even under Ronald Koeman, Malen found himself shuffled between the starting lineup and the bench as a wide player.
However, with Brian Brobbey currently sidelined and Xavi implementing a high-octane attacking style, the stage is set for Malen to finally claim the number nine shirt.
The 27-year-old center-forward is set to make his debut under the former Barcelona midfield maestro when they square off against Greece.
Xavi was full of praise for the player’s attitude and current sharpness.
The manager concluded that Malen is training really well and is in excellent shape.