€45m Barcelona midfielder begins to show some flaws while playing in the double-pivot – Report | OneFootball

In such a crucial stage of the season, it is imperative that FC Barcelona make no mistakes. For La Blaugrana, everything from here onwards is make or break in terms of the silverware they could possibly win. Unfortunately, there are definitely certain things that could compromise Barcelona.

One such thing is the fitness of the players, and that is perhaps the most crucial thing. However, with Robert Lewandowski injured recently, that problem could become a significant one if it continues to compromise more players within the squad.

Another problem, however, is possibly the awareness of a certain Barcelona midfielder who often operates as part of the team’s double-pivot midfield alongside Pedri. That players is none other than Frenkie de Jong, who is beginning to show certain cracks in his play as a midfielder in the team’s double-pivot system.

According to SPORT, there is a lot of attention on Frenkie de Jong lately and not all of it is possible. In fact, during the recent game against Celta Vigo, it was clear to see that he does have vulnerabilities while playing in the new role that Hansi Flick has given to him.

His defensive positioning, as per the report, is arguably the biggest concern. Especially when considering the second goal scored by Celta Vigo, it was clear to see that the Dutchman’s hesitation in going for the ball ultimately allowed Borja Iglesias to go on and score for his team.

Moreover, the report states that this is a recurring issue whenever he is on the pitch. His awareness and defensive discipline are both questionable, and they are susceptible to being exploited by opponents. However, that does not mean that the player does not have his redeeming qualities.

Going forward on the offensive, there are few better ball carriers in European football than the €45 million-rated midfielder, as per his Transfermarkt valuation. His ability on the ball and composure on it are second to none, and that ability has enabled him to become such a key asset for Hansi Flick.

In fact, within the same report, it is stated that the German coach is pushing to get the player’s contract renewed. He continues to have full faith in his abilities and sees the player as someone who has a big role to play in his plans for Barcelona.

At the same time, however, the qualities that a player like Marc Casado brings are also sorely missed. Much more aware of his defensive duties and positioning, he offers more stability from a structural standpoint even if he does not possess the elite offensive and technical qualities of Frenkie de Jong.