Frenkie de Jong returned to the public conversation after his discharge on October 16, when the Dutch midfielder, injured in the World Cup, returned to HansiFlick's squad. In an interview with ZiggoSport, the 29-year-old explained that his main goal is to return to the starting eleven as soon as possible and that he does not want to get used to the substitute position.
The FCBarcelona forward recovered from a serious knee injury he suffered during the World Cup with the Netherlands team. After his discharge, DeJong had to once again demonstrate his quality on the field, facing competition from players like Pedri, Gavi and Pedri, who are competing for the midfield. The Dutchman assured that, although he understands the pressure from the fans and the criticism that appears when he is not on the field, his desire is to play constantly and not accept the idea of always staying on the bench.
In the interview, DeJong stated that he feels part of the team and that he doesn't care who he plays with, as long as he can contribute. "I think I also belong to that team and I feel like I can play there. Who I play with doesn't matter too much to me," he commented. Furthermore, he clarified that he prefers to occupy the pivot or interior position (6/8) instead of the midfielder (10), where he would have more contact with the ball. The player emphasized that his return should be gradual and that, in the long term, he wants to play consistently.
The midfielder also spoke about his physical condition, stating that he feels strong and in good shape to add minutes on the pitch. "I have a huge desire to return. The summer was extremely difficult for me, either because of what happened at the World Cup or because of the injury I suffered afterwards. But now I'm back, I feel in good shape and I really want to play again," he added. DeJong concluded that, although he does not want to get used to being a substitute, he understands the current situation and that his goal is to return to the starting lineup as soon as possible.
Finally, the player expressed his ambition to win the Champions League with Barça, considering it a dream that has not yet been fulfilled. "It's something I still have to achieve in my career. It's a very important goal, a dream, a desire," he said. DeJong believes that the team has the technical quality necessary to compete at the highest level, although he recognizes that the playoffs are decided by details and a little luck. With the season underway, FCBarcelona and its fans hope to soon see the Dutch midfielder on the starting line, where his experience and vision of the game can make the difference.