Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong was back in action for the Netherlands on Saturday for the first time in a year, after missing a number of call-ups through injury. He admitted that he was still suffering at times from his physical problems, and was left out by Ronald Koeman for his second game of the international break.
De Jong played 68 minutes in their 4-0 win over Hungary in Amsterdam before being replaced by Teun Koopmeiners. Koeman decided to rest De Jong and Virgil van Dijk for their second Nations League game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, releasing both from international duty. As reported by MDDe Jong is set to return to Barcelona soon with a week's rest before taking on Celta Vigo at Balaidos.
To prepare for his return, Ronald Araújo actively participated in video sessions focused on Hansi Flick's defensive system, especially the master of the offside trap. Flick sees Araújo as a vital piece, but the defender will have to regain his place in a backline…. pic.twitter.com/yulfYjC5E7
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) November 18, 2024
The 27-year-old has had a tough year at Barcelona, and it looks like he could struggle to regain his starting place, with Pedri and Marc Casado playing well ahead of him. However, he could benefit from not being straight back to the starting line every week, as his ankle injury kept him out for five months, and he suffered several relapses.
