Replacing Xavi Hernandez has proven to be one of the more difficult tasks at Barcelona since his retirement, yet with the Catalan now on his own coaching journey, he has admitted that Frenkie de Jong will define an era with the Blaugrana.
De Jong has found himself used in multiple positions since joining the club, but his talent is unquestionable, as was seen during his career with Ajax. "I consider him a footballer who is capable of defining an era at Barcelona," Xavi explained in a post on the official Instagram account of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
"I'm sure that playing for the Netherlands he will be one of the best players at the 2022 World Cup. I was happy when he signed for Barcelona and I congratulated him." When pressed on just what he likes about the former Ajax prodigy's game, he discussed his ability on the ball.
"He seems to me an extraordinary footballer," Xavi added. "He's not afraid to receive the ball in areas where it is difficult to turn. He's very good." Whilst glowing in his praise of the midfielder, Xavi urged people not to compare De Jong with either himself or Iniesta, as it is unfair to their development. "De Jong is De Jong, he has nothing to do with Iniesta or Busquets or me, it's totally different," he confirmed.
"The best footballers in the world play for Barcelona and you need time to adapt and adjust to a new culture. It was difficult for me and Iniesta when we were young; it's difficult to make a difference at a big club when you're young."