49erssports.com - Frenkie de Jong returns to Barcelona's starting XI against Villarreal in the 2022/23 La Liga midweek duel, Friday (21/10/2022). This time, Barca won convincingly with a score of 3-0.
The match at Camp Nou was crucial for Barca to quickly get back on their feet after being beaten by Real Madrid in a fierce duel last week. Xavi also made a number of changes in the starting XI.
De Jong was introduced as a pivot, replacing the role of Sergio Busquets. This decision clearly bears fruit. De Jong was impressive and Xavi should think twice.
In fact, De Jong's game in that match was one of the most important aspects for Barca's victory. So, what did he say?
Must win
De Jong insisted that the match was crucial for Barca. They were just beaten by rivals last week and may continue to languish in the competition at the top.
Fortunately, Barca can handle the pressure well. They immediately rose and picked a crucial victory.
"After bad results against Inter and Real Madrid, we needed a win. If you win, the atmosphere in the dressing room is much better, your morale is lifted," said De Jong.
"Villarreal are a very good team and for that we played very well. 3-0 in the first half was very good."
No matter the position
Xavi's playing opportunities seem very important for De Jong personally. He's been reserved more often this season, I don't know what the coach's reasons are.
"I don't care where I play, but obviously I feel comfortable when I can participate in the game, which is when I can touch the ball a lot," continued De Jong.
"And tonight I was given a lot of opportunities to touch the ball," he said.
There were concerns about De Jong's fitness, because he was withdrawn before 90 minutes. However, after the game, De Jong made sure there were no problems.