After a season marred by injury and inconsistency, Frenkie de Jong has sent a clear message to Barcelona manager Hansi Flick: he’s back and ready to fight for his place in the team.
The Dutch midfielder was in impressive form on Sunday, scoring and putting in a dominant display as Barcelona saw off Valencia. As he left the pitch, De Jong was met with a thunderous ovation from the Camp Nou faithful, and he revealed afterwards that he’s finally feeling 100% fit.
“I’ve had a tough time with injuries, but I’m feeling good now,” De Jong said in a post-match interview. “I’ve got to prove myself and show that I deserve to play. We’ll see what happens, but I’m ready for the challenge.”
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De Jong’s return to form couldn’t have come at a better time for Barcelona, who have struggled to find consistency in La Liga this season. With the Dutchman back to full fitness, Flick now has a welcome selection headache as he looks to plot a course back to the top of the table.
While De Jong still faces a battle to force his way into the starting XI, his performance against Valencia was a clear statement of intent. With his confidence and fitness levels now at an all-time high, the 25-year-old is ready to prove himself all over again and become a key player for Barcelona.
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