Barcelona faces the start of the season with several uncertainties in its midfield. One of them centers on Frenkie de Jong, whose continuity seemed assured after he accepted a reduced contract renewal last season. However, in recent weeks, his relationship with Hansi Flick's project has once again become dangerously strained.
The Dutchman has been one of the most important pieces in the blaugrana midfield for years. Despite recurring injuries and doubts about his performance, he has always managed to regain prominence at key moments of the season. However, his role now seems to be in question, which is causing discomfort both in the locker room and in his own circle.
The board trusts his ability to lead, but they also know he's not absolutely untouchable. Flick insists that all players must earn their place game by game. That policy, while logical in theory, threatens to relegate De Jong to a secondary role that he's not willing to accept.
De Jong is considering renewing his contract | @FCBarcelona_cat
A start to the season with worrying signs
The German coach's message has been clear: nobody has a guaranteed starting spot. Proof of this is that footballers like Jules Koundé or Dani Olmo have started some matches on the bench. That same standard is being applied to De Jong, who is no longer the first choice in every starting eleven.
The situation has sparked an internal debate reminiscent of the one during his contract renewal. Back then, the Dutchman pushed things to the limit before accepting less favorable financial terms. Now, what's at stake isn't numbers, but quality minutes on the field.
Sources close to the player say that he has shown his discomfort in private. Frenkie understands that the club is going through a delicate moment, but he doesn't accept feeling sidelined. His priority is to play, and if he feels he's not being valued, he could seriously reconsider his immediate future.
Frenkie De Jong with Barça | @FCBarcelona
The return of a youngster who changes everything
The main reason for this tension has a first and last name. After overcoming a serious injury, one of Barça's greatest prospects has returned with tremendous strength. His energy, high pressing, and ability to arrive from the second line have quickly won Flick over.
The German coach sees him as a footballer who perfectly embodies his idea of a more vertical Barça. His intensity contrasts with De Jong's more measured and cerebral style. That difference in profiles means the academy product is gaining more and more prominence.
These tactical moves haven't gone unnoticed in the locker room. Some players understand Flick's bet on youth and intensity. Others, however, believe that the Dutchman still has much to contribute and deserves to remain an undisputed starter.
Gavi has come back unstoppable | @pablogavi
The name threatening Frenkie de Jong's position is none other than Gavi. The Sevillian has returned after months of recovery and already seems undroppable for the coach. His entrance in the match against Levante revolutionized the team and was decisive in the comeback.
Flick especially values his ability to spread energy, recover balls, and add presence in the opponent's box. For the coach, Gavi represents the essence of his playing philosophy and the symbol of a new era. That trust has sparked the first major conflict of the season in the blaugrana locker room.
According to internal sources, De Jong has already issued an ultimatum to the club: "If my role is secondary, I'm considering leaving." Chelsea is still monitoring his situation and could become a destination if the tension isn't solved soon. The only certainty is that the standoff between Flick's favorite and the Dutch mastermind will define Barça's immediate future.
