De Jong Shines in Barcelona’s Revival Against Alavés

Frenkie de Jong, always self-critical of both the team’s performance and his own, had been one of those demanding a turnaround for a strong finish to the season. He actively contributed to that resurgence with a standout performance in Vitoria against Alavés.

Xavi made a strategic change in the midfield, opting for Andreas Christensen to play as a defensive midfielder, a move he had contemplated for months but hadn’t implemented until now. With the Danish player taking on more defensive responsibilities, De Jong found himself somewhat freed to showcase his best qualities—providing excellent ball distribution and forming quick associations with teammates in tight spaces.

The match statistics support this observation. De Jong successfully completed 74 out of 81 pass attempts, executed three notable key passes, won five out of four attempted duels, and only lost possession seven times. His pivotal role in building up the game allowed Barcelona to maintain possession even when reduced to ten men due to Vitor Roque’s unjust expulsion.

De Jong appears fully recovered from the ankle injury that sidelined him for a month and a half. He has become a fixture in Xavi’s plans, a testament to the coach’s persistence in retaining him when the previous management considered transferring him to Manchester United. Since his return, De Jong has played every possible minute in all competitions, with his only rest coming in the match against Almería due to suspension.

With a contract until June 30, 2026, the new sporting director, Deco, intends to negotiate an extension with De Jong and his representative. While talks might not progress until next summer, Barcelona seems committed to securing the Dutch midfielder’s continued presence in the squad.