Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong was at the center of a long-running transfer saga over the summer, but the player claims he never planned to leave Barca.
What did Frenkie de Jong say?
The Dutch national team player was the subject of intense transfer interest from the Red Devils throughout the summer, with the Blues also eventually dropping their cap in the ring. Barca was tempted to sell to alleviate their ongoing financial problems and even negotiated a deal with Man Utd, but the player ended up staying at Camp Nou after insisting he wanted to stay put. However, Frenkie de Jong has since found his playing time limited.
Speaking about the Netherlands national team, the Dutch midfielder revealed when and why he decided to stay at Barca, saying that he had already decided in May that he wanted to stay. So Frenkie himself was very calm. According to Frenkie de Jong, he now feels welcome at the club. Nothing has changed with his teammates.
Frenkie de Jong added about his lack of regular minutes in the press conference that he did not start against Bayern in the Champions League. He wants to play important games. When De Jong plays less, he notices it. Frenkie de Jong says not quite technically because they can still play football, but more physically.
A little about Frenkie de Jong
Frenkie de Jong has started just four of eight games for Barcelona in all competitions this season and is obviously already frustrated by the lack of playing time. However, Xavi’s manager may be in no rush to turn things around with a side that hasn’t been scored in La Liga so far, losing just once in six matches.
Although Frenkie de Jong may not start regularly at club level, the Dutchman remains a key player for his country and will be looking to impress in the upcoming Nations League clashes against Poland and Belgium.