Frenkie de Jong has gone through delicate moments since Hansi Flick's arrival on Barça's bench, but now he is starting to perform. At the beginning of the season, the Dutch midfielder couldn't secure a fixed spot in the starting eleven due to his low level. His play didn't quite fit with the style proposed by Flick, who opted for other alternatives in the team's midfield.
However, in recent matches, such as against Alavés and Atalanta, De Jong has demonstrated his worth, progressively earning his spot. The German coach has managed to refine De Jong's playing style, adapting his positioning and roles within the team. Although the start of the season was complicated for the player, his performance has notably improved as the matches have progressed.
That's why, in recent games, Frenkie De Jong has been crucial both in ball distribution and mobility, showcasing his quality in every action. His growth on the field has been evident, and with his work, he is establishing himself as one of the pillars of the midfield.
A dream trio with Gavi and Pedri
Alongside Pedri and Gavi, De Jong is forming a high-quality line that is making a difference in Flick's Barça. The combination of Pedri's creativity and vision, Gavi's intensity, along with De Jong's ability to organize, has provided the team with a fantastic midfield. This trio has given Barça a new dimension, with more control in possession and greater speed when pressing in transitions.
De Jong, unlike Marc Casadó as a pivot, facilitates Barça's movement with more fluidity and speed. The presence of the Dutchman as a more complete midfielder has given the team a new way of playing, where ball circulation is faster and less predictable.
His contract: De Jong's major handicap
Despite his growth, there is still uncertainty at Barça regarding Frenkie de Jong's future. The Dutchman, who has a contract ending in 2026 and the club wants a solution. Barça doesn't want to reach the last year of De Jong's contract without having made a decision about his renewal or possible sale.
The issue of De Jong's contract becomes even more relevant when analyzing Barça's economic context. The club needs to manage its assets, and in Frenkie's case, he is a player who could free up a lot in salaries.
Two options for Frenkie
The summer of 2025 will be key to determining Frenkie de Jong's future at Barça since the club will have to make a decision: renew De Jong or sell him. The Dutchman's contractual situation implies that, starting January 1, 2026, he will be able to negotiate with other teams without restrictions.
In this context, the club's management will have to act prudently, seeking the best for both the player and the team's finances. In recent weeks, there has been a positive feeling regarding De Jong's willingness to renew his contract with Barcelona. Although an agreement hasn't been finalized yet, it seems the player would be more open to continuing at the club.