When least expected, Hansi Flick returns from Mallorca with a bang and an unexpected transfer. Everyone had given up on Frenkie De Jong. Everyone except him.
In Mallorca he's discovered a hidden treasure. He has an exceptional attacking midfielder who is extremely dangerous when he steps into the penalty area. A reinforcement that is a great fit for a squad that was beginning to show signs of exhaustion.
Frenkie De Jong was in the game for 18 minutes in Mallorca. Hansi Flick brought him on as the first substitution to replace Dani Olmo. He was replaced by Gavi and Fermín.
Flick Discovers Frenkie De Jong
Flick gave the Dutch player his stripes at a very delicate moment for him. His play has been highly questioned in the blaugrana environment. In fact, it was taken for granted that he would have two more days left as Barcelona's captain.
Frenkie replied to Flick by giving him what he asked for. He did so far from the pivot position that haunted him (with Koeman, he even played as a center-back). He did so very close to the rival area, Frenkie did a lot of damage.
A goal on arrival, which is what is expected of a midfielder. Coming from behind, from the second line, and shooting a loose ball inside the area.
Then he assisted Pau Víctor. Lamine got tangled up with a ball, which also went loose. Then Frenkie appeared like an arrow to run to the byline and cross back for Pau Víctor to close the score with 5-1.
Frenkie De Jong has shown Flick that he can be very useful. This is important now that Barça enters the decisive phase of the season.
Without Lewandowski but with Frenkie De Jong
Raphinha and Lamine Yamal steal the spotlight. The Brazilian scored a brace, which keeps him on a roll (11 goals in 16 games now).
Lamine Yamal was once again crucial with his masterful assists. Three goals came from his cleats. He didn't have a great game, but even when he's not doing well he can't help but give life to Barça's goals.
15 starts and 15 wins. That's Lamine Yamal and his importance in the game of this Barça of Flick. In Mallorca, without Lewandowski! But with a renewed Frenkie De Jong!
Dani Olmo already knows that it'll be difficult for him to be a starter if Frenkie De Jong keeps up as he showed in Mallorca.