Barcelona Open to Selling Frenkie de Jong Under One Condition
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is willing to sell Frenkie de Jong next summer, but only if the team secures a midfielder with better tactical and physical attributes.
Hansi Flick, head coach of Barcelona, has reportedly given the green light to sell Frenkie de Jong next summer, but only under one condition: the team must reinforce the midfield with a player offering superior tactical and physical attributes.
De Jong, once a key figure in Barcelona’s starting XI, has struggled to regain his form following a complex ankle injury. Despite his reputation as one of the world’s top midfielders, his performances have fallen behind younger players like Pedri, Gavi, and Dani Olmo. With eight midfielders currently competing for three starting spots, De Jong's importance to the squad has diminished.
Flick, who initially supported keeping the Dutch star, appears to have shifted his stance. Reports indicate that the coach believes the team could benefit from a fresh perspective in midfield to align with the squad’s tactical evolution. Additionally, no progress has been made regarding a contract extension for De Jong, whose current deal remains unchanged.
Barcelona’s financial constraints also play a role in this decision. Selling De Jong could provide the club with the resources needed to comply with financial fair play regulations and potentially bring in a high-caliber midfielder to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.
The potential departure of De Jong would mark a significant shift for Barcelona, but Flick's strategic focus on the team's long-term success underscores his readiness to make bold decisions.