Frenkie De Jong has been linked with a move to Manchester United and Chelsea this summer. However, the player has expressed his desire to stay at Barcelona despite the links. The Manager, Xavi Hernandez wants the midfielder as part of the squad at the club.
The Spanish Manager believes that Frenkie De Jong will become a central figure at Barcelona in the future. However, the club hierarchy wants to sell the midfielder to free up some much-needed funds. Manchester United wants to sign the Dutchman in order to strengthen their midfield under Erik Ten Hag.
However, in recent weeks, Chelsea has been reported as the favorite to sign Frenkie De Jong. The Dutchman wants to play in the UEFA Champions League and Chelsea is offering just that. Whereas, Manchester United has only managed to qualify for the UEFA Europa League this season.
Amidst all the transfer links, Xavi Hernandez has been heaping praise over the midfielder and his qualities on the pitch.
The Manager looks at Frenkie De Jong as a future pivot as well
Xavi Hernandez in a recent interview spoke about the midfielder’s abilities on the pitch. The Spaniard while talking about the player said:
“Frenkie is a spectacular player, with a lot of leadership. I see him as an interior, but he can also adapt to playing as a pivot.”
The Manager believes that the Dutchman can adapt to a role as a pivot and become the long-term successor of Sergio Busquets. However, the Barcelona legend does not believe the player can be utilized as a full-back.
Interestingly, the Dutchman was used as a centre-back in the pre-season and impressed the manager. Xavi believes the midfielder can adapt to a central position but does not see him as a full-back. The boss said:
“As a full-back? No, I don’t see him there. At Barcelona, you have to show in every match that you are ready, every match is a test.”
The manager explained that he does not think the Dutchman can play as a full-back. He believes that the skill set of the player enables him to play better centrally. Xavi Hernandez is hopeful of top performances from his main man in the midfield as the club looks to challenge in multiple competitions!!
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