Frenkie de Jong is experiencing his most prosperous period under Hansi Flick’s new vision at FC Barcelona. Following a challenging season start due to an ankle injury that sidelined him for over five months, the Dutch midfielder has rediscovered his form and appears to have definitively established himself ahead of Marc Casadó in the team’s midfield hierarchy.
The Netherlands international earned consecutive starts, first against Sevilla at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán and then versus Rayo Vallecano in a crucial 1-0 victory. With Barcelona eyeing the top spot in LaLiga, Flick deployed his strongest lineup at Montjuïc, choosing De Jong to partner with Pedri and Gavi in midfield.
Midfield Competition Heats Up
Following the match against Iñigo Pérez’s side, De Jong addressed the media regarding his position battle with Casadó. “The entire squad has tremendous quality, including Casa. We all have something to contribute,” he stated, while expressing satisfaction with the team’s victory and league position.
The Dutch midfielder remained grounded, noting that “the season is far from over, with several teams in close contention. There’s nothing to celebrate yet.” He also acknowledged the challenge posed by Rayo: “They’re a strong pressing team that made our ball progression difficult, but winning these tough matches is crucial for end-of-season success.”
Performance Analysis and Statistics
De Jong’s recent performances, particularly in crucial matches against Sevilla and Rayo, showcase his return to peak form. This resurgence has earned Flick’s trust, though it has consequently reduced Casadó’s playing time, who was previously a regular starter.
Key Statistics for 2024-2025 Season:
Frenkie de Jong:
• 24 matches played
• 9 total starts across competitions
• 2 goals and 1 assist
• 556 LaLiga minutes
Marc Casadó:
• 31 matches played
• 26 total starts across competitions
• 6 assists
• 1,369 LaLiga minutes
With several months of competitive football remaining and a packed fixture schedule, both midfielders are likely to see significant playing time. However, De Jong’s recent performances suggest he has established himself as the preferred choice in Flick’s system.
Stay updated with Barcelona’s midfield dynamics and follow their journey through LaLiga and European competitions. For the latest news and match updates, visit the official FC Barcelona website.
