While De Jong's return to the field is nearing, reclaiming a starting spot at Barcelona will not be easy. Given the significant changes in the team's midfield during his absence, this will be a real battle, perhaps the toughest competition of his Barcelona career.
Former Dutch international Boulahrouz has issued a clear warning to his compatriot De Jong, believing that the path to the starting lineup is now more difficult than ever.
Boulahrouz made these remarks during an analytical program on Ziggo Sport, later quoted by Sport. He stated that Rodri's arrival has completely transformed Barcelona's midfield, and De Jong will face fiercer competition than before his injury.
The former Chelsea and Sevilla defender pointed out that Rodri has become indispensable to Flick's tactical system: "As long as Rodri is on the field, I think that position is his. He is a guaranteed starter and one of the best midfielders in the world today. He excels at winning the ball and driving forward, and he makes an immediate impact. He is the best choice for that position."
Boulahrouz explained that with Rodri firmly established in the defensive midfield role and attacking positions typically reserved for Olmo or Fermín López, De Jong must directly compete with Pedri for the remaining midfield spot.
He added with a laugh: "There will be real competition between Pedri and De Jong. They are both excellent players. Personally, I love watching De Jong play. However, they are two different types of players."
He further elaborated on their differences: "Pedri is more inclined to link play with the forwards; he's the bridge between midfield and attack. De Jong, on the other hand, is a deep-lying playmaker—the first person the team looks for when building from the back. He's usually the first outlet. He's crucial to the team, both in and out of possession."
Despite the intense competition, Boulahrouz did not rule out the possibility of Flick deploying all three midfielders simultaneously, concluding: "I think the three of them can also play very well together."
De Jong's contract with Barcelona runs until 2029. He is currently in the final stages of recovery from a knee injury sustained during the World Cup. Now his biggest challenge is to convince Flick that he deserves a midfield starting spot, particularly with Bernal and Gavi also in the mix. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Flick is seriously considering converting him to center-back.
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yiwaknuz
1
There will be no stiff battle.. Flick will only Rotate these players, so they can be at there best for the task ahead. I’m even pained we don’t have consistent rotation for yamal. So he can be at his peak for things like champions league.. see as Barcelona fans let’s not lie to ourselves. That’s one trophy we all need at the moment. 100%
fodbimpsuy
0
De jong is very talented we need him we can clearly see that we need him
lebrew7
1
Sell him, and buy a good defender. The midfield is already packed.