There are details surrounding Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona that may not please some supporters, but they could also bring a major surprise as the midfielder approaches his return. The situation in midfield has changed, and competition has become stronger, but that does not necessarily mean the Dutchman has been ruled out of Hansi Flick’s plans.
According to David Bernabéu of SPORT, a return to his best level could give De Jong another opportunity to play regularly under Flick, despite the presence of strong midfield options including Rodri and Pedri. Bernabéu believes Barcelona do not have many players with the same characteristics De Jong offers when he has the ball.
Bernabéu explained that everything will first depend on how De Jong’s treatment progresses and the condition of his knee, but if the midfielder returns to his previous level, he is convinced that De Jong will once again become an important player for Flick.
The journalist explained that De Jong’s importance is not only about competing for a midfield position, but also about what he can provide when Barcelona have possession. He pointed out that the club has signed Rodri and also has Pedri, but if Barcelona want to become European champions, they need to take another step forward in controlling matches.
Bernabéu believes Barcelona do not have an excess of players capable of providing that kind of control, making De Jong’s specific qualities particularly valuable to the team.
The most intriguing part of the journalist’s comments, however, concerned his relationship with Hansi Flick.
Bernabéu pointed out that Flick was not happy with the way De Jong handled certain matters, something that is known, but at the same time stressed that the German coach greatly admires the player and considers him highly important.
Therefore, De Jong’s situation does not appear to be settled against him, as some supporters might believe.
The competition will primarily depend on his level after returning. If he does not reach the required level, he will not be able to compete for his place, and there will be no guarantee of regular playing time.
If he regains his level and proves himself in training, however, the door will remain open for him to return to the team and play an important role.
Bernabéu does not necessarily believe De Jong will return as an undisputed starter in every match, but he is almost certain that the midfielder can become important in rotation and receive quality minutes with Barcelona.
This makes the next stage particularly important for the Dutchman. His task is not only to recover from injury, but also to return to the level that allows Flick to see the qualities that are difficult to replace within the squad.
With Rodri, Pedri and strong competition in midfield, De Jong’s return will be a genuine test of his position within Flick’s project.
But according to David Bernabéu’s view, the door has not been closed. If De Jong regains his best level, he could once again find himself among Barcelona’s important players.
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