Frenkie de Jong has reportedly impressed his Barcelona teammates with his condition and performances in training, giving Hansi Flick a strong solution to the midfield problems exposed against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Dutch international has returned from injury in excellent shape and could help restore energy and control to a Barcelona midfield that has struggled to cope with aggressive pressing and tight marking.
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De Jong made his comeback during Barcelona’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid, entering the game in the 74th minute.
Although Flick deployed him in an advanced midfield role, the Dutchman is more naturally suited to operating deeper, where his ability to carry the ball through pressure could prove especially valuable.
De Jong’s return comes after an extended spell on the sidelines following a knee injury sustained during the World Cup.
Frenkie de Jong has impressed his Barcelona teammates. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
He had been unavailable since the Netherlands’ elimination by Morocco on June 30, having already been dealing with the problem for around two weeks before the tournament ended.
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His first appearance against Real Madrid was therefore an important step towards rebuilding match fitness.
Flick introduced him with the score level at 1-1, hoping that his composure in possession would help Barcelona retain the ball and escape Madrid’s pressure.
The attacking midfield position was not De Jong’s usual role, but his return gives Flick greater flexibility.
The Dutchman is more comfortable as a defensive or central midfielder, where he can receive possession in deeper areas and help dictate the tempo.
Frenkie de Jong played his first match of the season against Real Madrid. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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According to Mundo Deportivo, sources inside the Barcelona dressing room have been particularly encouraged by De Jong’s recent training performances.
His teammates have been surprised by his physical condition and effectiveness with the ball despite his lengthy absence.
His ability to drive forward from deep positions could be especially useful as Barcelona seek answers to opponents who aggressively mark their midfielders.
As such, Flick has already spoken about his team’s lack of freshness, with the midfield particularly affected during the Clasico.
De Jong’s return could provide valuable rotation alongside Pedri and give the coach more options when selecting his preferred double pivot.
