Flick not happy with Frenkie whistles, offers update on his struggles
The Dutchman is yet to play consistent minutes since making hsi season debut
Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has struggled to play consistent minutes since making his season debut following a five-month absence due to a serious ankle injury, and the Dutchman was the subject of whistles by his own fans on Tuesday’s Champions League win against Brest.
It has not been the easiest of times for the captain on and off the pitch, as his contract status is once again a huge topic of conversation. But one thing is clear: De Jong still has the full trust of his coach.
Speaking on a press conference on Friday, Hansi Flick made it clear he was not happy with the crowd’s attitude towards Frenkie in midweek and asked the supporters to show their love for all players, incuding De Jong.
He also explained why the captain hasn’t played much since returning to action, as Hansi has chosen to be careful with a player still trying to regain his rhythm after such a long layoff.
“It’s clear to me: I like the fans to support all our players. This is what I would like the fans to do, which is fantastic. We have a good connection between fans and players. When the players give everything, the fans see it. The best thing would be for all the players to have the support of the fans.
“De Jong has gone through a long injury and took a heavy blow in Belgrade, very painful, and that has to be managed. Now we need him to regain his confidence. I know it’s very important for him to have minutes, but we analyze every game and the important thing is to win. I want the best team possible and that’s how we make decisions. And this is the reason why perhaps he does not have as many minutes as he would like or we would like.”
Frenkie will forever be a source of huge debate within the Barça fanbase, and some have already made up their minds that he has to leave and will not be patient as he tries to return to his best. But Hansi Flick will be patient, and will show the same trust in De Jong as he has shown his entire team.
Time will tell if that trust will pay off.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
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