Barcelona hope Frenkie de Jong will take step forward under Xavi

Frenkie de Jong has struggled to find consistency since joining Barcelona. His profile, from the Ajax school of football, seemed perfect for Barça's style, but he's only found his best form in dribs and drabs.

It's for that reason that, in his third season at Camp Nou, Barça hope he will take a step forward. The team needs him and Xavi is convinced the midfielder can give a lot more.

De Jong was devastated after the Celta Vigo game. After seeing the team throw away a 3-0 lead, he said they "lacked personality" and stopped playing in the second half.

The Dutchman's having a difficult time. There have been so many changes on the bench at Barça and behind the scenes since he signed in 2019.

The club hope that, with the stability Xavi's arrival should bring, De Jong's performances will improve and he will become one of the team's references.

Until now, one of the problems has been the lack of a clear position. He played more centrally at Ajax, while at Barça he has played as an interior. He has also played in defence and once even on the right wing. Last season, under Ronald Koeman, he had a run of scoring goals.

But the feeling is that it's still Sergio Busquets' Barça, he's at the centre of operations. Xavi feels they are complementary and hopes they will boh be key in his Barcelona side.