Barcelona’s new coach Hansi Flick has made an earnest request to his new club before the 2024-25 La Liga season commences. As per SPORT, the manager has asked the Blaugrana officials to retain their €70 million star Frenkie de Jong this season. The report claims the Dutch midfielder will likely stay in Spain as Flick considers him an essential piece in his new project at the club. Given his significance to the squad, the German manager has urged the club’s management not to sell the Dutchman this summer transfer window under any circumstances.
The same report states that Flick sees de Jong as a pivot in front of the team’s defence. The midfield star is expected to fill his position next season, once he recovers from an ankle injury. While there is no confirmed date when De Jong will be fully fit, a successful recovery is expected by September. Flick has been quite clear about his decision on De Jong since his arrival.
Flick’s plan has always been to put de Jong in front of the defence with support from another midfielder. This plan has already been explained to the Dutch midfielder as per SPORT. The 27-year-old is currently ‘absolutely’ calm about his future at Barcelona. He is focused on recovering well from the ankle injury that has lasted for quite a while. As per the same outlet, De Jong is certain he will be an undisputed starter under Flick. The only midfielder who can be affected by this is ex-Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan. With De Jong getting an untouchable position at the club, Gundogan may not get enough playtime.
Barcelona’s sporting director Deco had explained the club’s plan to Flick after his arrival earlier this year. The manager had already voiced his demands of bringing Dani Olmo and Nico Williams to the club. Barcelona also came close to signing Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino but Flick indicated that they had enough midfielders and it would be best to not sign anyone for that particular position.
Barcelona’s first challenge of the season will come on Sunday, August 18, as they take on Valencia in the La Liga.