Frenkie de Jong's 'rebellion' ahead of months crucial to his future

Barcelona’s win over Atletico Madrid confirmed two things. One, Xavi has a much more competitive squad now, and two, that they are starting to get the best versions of the players who were already there. Frenkie de Jong started his ‘rebellion’ in Vitoria with an important goal against Alaves, and had another big game against Atletico at Camp Nou. The Dutchman still has a long way to go but he’s come out of his apparent apathy and taken a step forward, that Barcelona have been waiting for.

With his self-criticism, he was the first to acknowledge he was not at his best. “I can improve, my form could be better but it’s not a disaster,” he said after the Alaves win. 

Xavi has said that Frenkie can be important and in the last couple of matches his change of ‘chip’ has been undoubted.

De Jong touched the ball 68 times against Atletico, 92 per cent pass accuracy of the 59 he attempted, won 11 duels and had three successful dribbles. 

He did not shine but his omnipresence was vital for Barcelona.

His running and determination was key in the final stages after Dani Alves was sent off. Pedri’s return has been good for Barcelona bur especially for Frenkie. He takes some of the organisation tasks and allows the Dutchman to reach the box.

Frenkie has two goals and two assists in 2,140 minutes. Taking into account what he showed last season (seven goals and eight assists), he can improve here.

Few players face a second half of the season so crucial for their future. De Jong must show he can lead this project. If not, then there is a chance he could go in the summer ,given the other players Barcelona have in midfield and the need to bring in a star name.

The Dutchman is worth 70m per Transfermarkt and his father says the five biggest clubs in Europe have asked after him. The next months are going to be definitive.