De Jong: I have improved at Barcelona but I can still get even better

Barcelona and Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong has told Voetbal International that his first season as the Catalan club was "ordinary" and that he must continue to grow as a player after a good 2020-21.

"My first year at Barça was fine, I played a lot of minutes, but in my opinion, I was just an ordinary player. This year I've been able to show myself better and played better in a lot of games, although I still think I can take steps forward and keep growing. I hope we still see a better De Jong."

De Jong also spoke about his position on the pitch, which is always a debate, both with club and country.

"I don't mind where the coach puts me," he said. "I prefer midfield but if I have to play at the back, I do. It's all a question of confidence at the end of the day. I notice that confidence from my coaches, my teammates, the media... it's a nice feeling, so I don't mind where I play, wherever the team needs me."

On Ronald Koeman continuing as Barça coach, De Jong said: "Obviously it's not necessary for me to even say how happy I am that Koeman's staying on."