“Hardest Decision” – Xavi Reveals Why He Favored Bournemouth Star Over Taylor

The Netherlands' head coach Xavi Hernandez revealed that his toughest decision of the season involved omitting Lazio midfielder Kenneth Taylor from his latest national team squad. The 46-year-old Dutch coach included Taylor in his inaugural lineup ahead of the extended international break in September and October, but surprisingly, he was not called up for Xavi's debut against Germany.

Taylor had a remarkable campaign at Lazio this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists in 11 Serie A matches. However, his exclusion from the squad was due to the need to accommodate returning Barcelona captain Frenkie de Jong and Bournemouth midfielder Justin Kluivert. Xavi admitted that this was the hardest decision he had to make, as Taylor remains on his radar and could return if he continues to perform at this high level.