In an exciting development within Barcelona’s ranks, the Spanish team’s midfielder is paying the price for the return of his Dutch colleague to the starting lineup, after the latter regained his confidence and proved his abilities in recent matches.
In a short period of time, the Dutch player was able to shine remarkably, becoming a key element in the team’s lineup, outperforming others who occupied this position.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper “Marca”, Spanish midfielder Marc Casado is paying the price for the recent return of Dutch player Frenkie de Jong to the Barça lineup.
Casado became a victim of De Jong regaining his confidence after the Dutchman took advantage of the opportunities given to him by German coach Hansi Flick in Blaugrana matches. In just two weeks, De Jong turned into a key player in the lineup after struggling to get minutes earlier.
Casado’s position has declined in Flick’s plans after he had recently been an untouchable player in the lineup, while Frenkie participated in the starting lineup in 4 of the last 5 matches. Notably, the remaining match was against Deportivo Alavés, where Frenkie replaced Casado in the second half.
The newspaper reported that Flick’s confidence in Frenkie has clearly grown, as the player had only started 4 matches before January 26. His relationship with the Barça fans was tense due to his delayed return from an ankle injury, but the player turned his situation around and regained the respect of the fans.
In total, Frenkie’s minutes with Barcelona this season have reached 1006, scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist in 23 matches across all competitions.