Lamine Yamal will not be available for the Champions League opener against Newcastle on Thursday, much to the dismay of head coach Hansi Flick. A war of words broke out between the German and the Spanish FA after he criticised the Spanish national team for not looking after Yamal. However, on the bright side, Frenkie de Jong has been named in the matchday squad.
Barcelona’s midfield brilliance stole the spotlight in their 2-1 Champions League win over Newcastle, with Pedri and Frenkie de Jong running the show. Jack Grealish labelled the pair “a joy to watch,” while Manchester United legend Paul Scholes called Pedri his “new favourite footballer.” Their dominance set the platform for Marcus Rashford’s decisive brace.
Marcus Rashford struck twice in nine minutes to sink Newcastle and reignite his career on the Champions League stage with Barcelona. Anthony Gordon grabbed his first goal in the competition but instead chose to praise his fellow England international along with midfield duo Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, who ran the show in the 2-1 win at St James’ Park.
Ferran Torres has managed 31 goals and assists for Barcelona since the start of last season and is considered a valuable member of Hansi Flick's squad. But the former Manchester City star's long-term future remains up in the air due to the lack of any progress or a proactive approach to extend his contract beyond its current expiry.
Barcelona have reached a breakthrough with Frenkie de Jong, who has agreed to extend his stay until 2029 on reduced wages. Talks had stalled after the Dutchman changed agents, but fresh negotiations revived the process. Joan Laporta insists good news is close, with De Jong’s renewal securing a vital pillar in Hansi Flick’s midfield.
Barcelona came from behind to beat Real Oviedo 3-1 on Thursday, but summer signing Joan Garcia’s early mistake put the Blaugrana on the back foot. Hansi Flick’s side recovered thanks to the influence of Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong, with the win keeping Barca’s title race alive as they remain just two points behind leaders Real Madrid.
Barcelona are in the process of renewing Frenkie de Jong's contract at the club, with an official announcement set to be made by the Spanish champions. Sporting director Deco confirmed last week that a contract renewal with De Jong will soon be secured, with the Dutch midfielder set to commit to the Catalan club until 2029.
Ronald Koeman says he has 'difficult' decisions to make as the Netherlands coach attempts to find the right balance in his midfield with the likes of Tijjani Reijnders, Frenkie de Jong and Ryan Gravenbech all fighting for a spot. It was the Manchester City signing who missed out on a starting XI spot as the Dutch demolished Finland on Sunday, with Justin Kluivert getting the chance to shine in attacking midfield.
Frenkie de Jong is set to secure his Barcelona future by signing a new contract extension until 2029, with an enormous €500 million release clause. The Dutch midfielder will put pen to paper on Wednesday alongside club president Joan Laporta. His renewal marks a major boost for Barca, who view him as a central figure in Hansi Flick’s long-term project.
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