Barcelona find themselves in a strange situation where two of the team’s captains simply don’t seem motivated enough to help the team’s cause.
Clearly still rebuilding under Hansi Flick, the Catalans have looked better this season than in recent times.
However, Ronald Araujo is now looking to leave given the stiff competition for a starting spot in defence, while Frenkie de Jong’s case also appears irreparable.
Disconnected from the present
As reported by AS in a recent update, Barcelona’s coaching staff and dressing room are becoming increasingly concerned about De Jong’s situation, as the player seems increasingly disconnected on the pitch than ever.
The Dutchman has been a shadow of himself since returning from injury earlier this season and it is clear that he is no longer as confident as he once was. And while that is perfectly excusable, there is a sense that he shows no desire to contribute on the field.
De Jong’s performances and mistakes in recent matches are the perfect testament to his growing sense of negligence towards his duties as Barcelona captain.
First, the player committed a penalty against Real Betis by committing an unnecessary foul on Vítor Roque at the Benito Villamarín.
Playing for Barcelona after the Christmas holidays, one vividly remembers the passage of the game in which he gave the ball to UD Barbastro and showed no desire to get it back.
Earlier this week, he again put the ball on a plate for Iñaki Williams in Barcelona’s victory over Athletic Club with a misplaced pass. If losing the ball wasn’t bad enough, he showed no urgency to help rectify his mistake.
After giving the ball away, De Jong remained motionless on the field, as if he had resigned himself to the fact that his tenure at the Club was coming to an end. Naturally, this is not a positive sign for Hansi Flick and Co.
Contractually obligated to Barcelona until 2026, it remains to be seen what happens with his future next summer. At this point, an exit seems very likely.