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Frenkie de Jong Returns

Hugo Fernández - 14 Nov 2026 | 20:00
FC Barcelona Frenkie de Jong España Fichajes España

One of the most criticized players, Frenkie de Jong, finds his best version away from FC Barcelona

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Frenkie de Jong returns to his best form.

Frenkie de Jong is starting to put his physical problems behind him, and his performance with the Netherlands against Greece is good news for the FC Barcelona. The midfielder was a starter and captain in the Dutch team's thrashing of 7-0, although he only played the first half. In those 45 minutes, he showcased control, precision, and decision-making with the ball that suggests he could be regaining prominence in Hansi Flick's team.

The result allowed Xavi Hernández to manage the efforts of his players. The Netherlands was already leading 5-0 at halftime, and De Jong did not return to the field after the break. His substitution, however, was not solely a technical decision: the coach explained that the Barcelona player had some back discomfort and had already felt certain discomforts before the match.

A first half to remember his importance

De Jong's numbers reflect the impact he had during his time on the pitch. He completed 79 of the 80 passes he attempted, a 98.8% accuracy rate, according to data collected by Opta. In addition, he recorded 84 touches, created one chance, and completed all three of his long passes.

Beyond the statistics, the Dutchman once again offered what Barcelona desperately needs in midfield: the ability to receive under pressure, break lines through dribbling, and maintain possession without taking unnecessary risks. His influence enabled the Netherlands to control the tempo of the match and find solutions to progress.

 

 

Starting also has a special significance. After overcoming an injury that impacted his season's start, De Jong is beginning to regain continuity and confidence. Being captain and part of the starting eleven in a match of such superiority is another step in that process.

Flick may recover a fundamental player

At FC Barcelona, they need De Jong to play an important role again. His ability to organize play and connect the defense with attacking players provides Flick with an alternative different from other profiles in midfield. He is not just a player to hold onto the ball: when he is in good condition, he can also break lines and speed up transitions.

The German coach has managed his return with caution, aware that he needs to regain his best form without rushing the process. The competition in midfield is high, but the Dutchman has the qualities to earn a spot in the starting eleven again if he maintains the level shown against Greece.

 

 

That said, the substitution at halftime necessitates some caution. Xavi confirmed the back discomfort, although he assured that it did not seem serious and expected to have him available for the next commitment against Germany. The player himself explained that, after returning from an injury and still having little competitive rhythm, it did not make sense to take risks with such a favorable scoreline.

A gradual return that could change the midfield

The 7-0 victory of the Netherlands over Greece left a very positive image of De Jong but also reminded that he still needs to accumulate minutes. The priority is for him to complete his recovery and be able to string together matches without new setbacks.

For Flick, having the best Frenkie back would be like recovering a new signing. His ability to play out from the back, control the tempo, and overcome opposition pressure could elevate the team's level during an important phase of the season.

He only needed 45 minutes to show that he is still a differential player. If the discomfort does not worsen and he gains continuity, De Jong can begin to regain importance at FC Barcelona and once again become an essential piece in Flick's plans.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Vuelve Frenkie de Jong