Step to the front for Nico Gonzalez
The young midfielder will have more responsibility this season with De Jong set to go
It seems likely Frenkie de Jong will depart for Manchester United. The clubs have nearly reached a deal and just need the player to agree. It will leave a big hole in Barcelona’s midfield.
There’s a player there who is ready to take a step up. Nico Gonzalez should gain some protagonism this season, ready to start from zero and make his mark.
The Galician midfielder featured in 27 first team games to date, missing the final stretch of the season with an injury, although he had lost some status by that point.
The son on the legendary Fran Gonzalez of Depor turns 21 this season. He’s still young, with his career ahead of him, but it’s time for him to start expecting more of himself.
Whether or not a replacement for Frenkie arrives in midfield - Bernardo or Soler - he still must add consistency to his game and compete with Pedri, Gavi and Busquets for a role.
After the meeting between Laporta and Jorge Mendes, the Portuguese superagent was clear. “He’s not for sale,” he explained, revealing Barcelona want him at the club next season. Xavi has said similar when asked. He counts on him and wants to help him explode. It’s just a question of time.
