Ahead of the upcoming European qualifiers, Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong spoke with a 12BET Official sports reporter after joining the Netherlands squad, reflecting on the changes he has experienced at both club and international level. Much like the idea that you never truly know your limits until you push yourself to the end, De Jong said he had already completed extensive preparations for the next match against Greece, while tactical discussions within the team had also focused on producing a stronger overall performance.
He explained that when a player fails to carry out his responsibilities during a match, it is better to address the issue directly rather than talk behind his back. At the same time, De Jong stressed that he does not interfere with coaching decisions regarding tactical positioning or team selection. He only gives his opinion when asked and would never approach a manager simply because he likes or dislikes a particular decision. His role at Barcelona began to change last season, when he started dropping deeper and sharing more defensive responsibility alongside Sergio Busquets. With no easy way back, he continued adapting to the new demands and concentrated fully on fulfilling his responsibilities.
Although Busquets has since left the club, De Jong continues to perform a broadly similar function, only now alongside different teammates. His approach has not changed, as he continues to hold himself to high standards regardless of where he is positioned on the pitch. Supporters following his performances through 12BET Official hope he can carry his Barcelona form into international duty and show the full range of his abilities for the Netherlands. In the end, results will speak for themselves, so De Jong remains focused primarily on the quality of his performances.
The midfielder also expressed disappointment over the recent struggles of his former club Ajax. Even so, he refused to be overly pessimistic, pointing out that the season was still in its early stages and that circumstances could change with time. He added that Ajax had not yet fallen completely out of contention in either domestic league or cup competitions, leaving room for improvement as the campaign develops.
Another major issue surrounding Barcelona is the club’s ongoing contract discussions with head coach Xavi. Negotiations have reportedly continued in a positive atmosphere, although the length of the proposed extension remains unresolved. At one stage, a new three-year agreement appeared possible, but a shorter one-year extension can no longer be ruled out. Just as today’s effort can become the foundation of tomorrow’s success, sustained work remains essential for anyone hoping to establish lasting influence in a highly competitive environment.
According to analysis carried through 12BET Official, Xavi’s contract situation cannot be separated from Barcelona’s wider financial circumstances. The club must carefully assess how the duration and structure of any extension could affect its financial stability and compliance with financial regulations. For Barcelona, reaching an agreement is therefore not only a sporting decision but also one that requires careful long-term planning and a realistic understanding of the club’s economic position.