Barça has made a big change in their lineup to face Atlético de Madrid, in a key match for the future of LaLiga. Surprisingly and unexpectedly, Hansi Flick has made the decision to leave his "soldier" Frenkie de Jong on the bench for the match at the Metropolitano. In his place, having been widely applauded for this change, the youth player Marc Casadó has come out.
However, this change in Hansi Flick's plans had a clear reason, as the German himself explained minutes before the match against Atleti. Frenkie de Jong is not in condition, he doesn't feel well and has been a last-minute withdrawal for Barça at the Metropolitano. The footballer informed him at the team hotel, making it impossible for him to be drafted.
Frenkie de Jong confirms to Hansi Flick before Atleti: "I'm not..."
Before heading to Atleti's stadium, Frenkie de Jong confirmed his indisposition to Hansi Flick. "I'm not in condition, coach", he indicated. He is not injured, nor does he have any physical problem, he simply doesn't feel well, noticing some discomfort that has prevented him from being available for FC Barcelona's coach.
Initially, the German's plan was clear: Frenkie de Jong would have been a starter against Atleti. It couldn't be, having to resort to his plan B, Marc Casadó, for this important match.
U-turn with Frenkie de Jong: now he wants to stay at Barça
Frenkie de Jong has been with one foot out of Barça for the last few years. His contract ends on June 30, 2026, and for a long period, he didn't respond to Laporta's firm proposal to renew. Having taken this path, the club decided to withdraw it and assume he wouldn't continue, potentially leaving for free in a year, but it seems something has changed...
Now, De Jong wants to continue at Barça. He has communicated this in the locker room, clearly telling the rest of his teammates. Everything has changed for him since the arrival of Hansi Flick to the bench.
Now, he feels comfortable and appreciated, having the opportunities he believes he deserves. He has already conveyed his desire to continue and has even received a response from Laporta.
Frenkie de Jong has the total and absolute confidence of Hansi Flick, now leaning toward continuing at Barcelona. When he's not there, as is the case against Atleti, there's no problem: Marc Casadó is more than ready.