Barcelona’s midfield has undergone a significant shift as Dutch star Frenkie de Jong reestablishes himself in the starting lineup, pushing Spanish midfielder Marc Casado out of Hansi Flick’s plans.
De Jong, who had struggled for minutes earlier in the season, has taken full advantage of his recent opportunities, proving his worth and regaining the coach’s trust.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Casado has been the main casualty of De Jong’s resurgence. The Dutchman’s strong performances have secured him a key role in the squad, outshining competitors in the midfield.
His rise has been rapid—within just two weeks, he transformed from a rotational option into a regular starter, cementing his place in Flick’s lineup.
De Jong has started four of Barcelona’s last five matches, with the only exception being the game against Deportivo Alavés, where he replaced Casado in the second half. Previously, Casado had been considered an integral part of the team, but his status has since diminished due to De Jong’s growing influence.
Flick’s trust in the Dutch midfielder has clearly increased. Prior to January 26, De Jong had only started four matches, struggling with injuries and a delayed return from an ankle issue that had strained his relationship with Barcelona fans. However, his recent performances have won back their respect, solidifying his place in the team.
So far this season, De Jong has accumulated 1,006 minutes of playing time, scoring two goals and providing one assist in 23 appearances across all competitions. His resurgence has not only strengthened Barcelona’s midfield but also highlighted his importance to Flick’s tactical setup, leaving Casado on the sidelines for now.
Leave a Reply