Barcelona may take a chance with player for Copa del Rey. Frenkie de Jong might be utilized by Barcelona against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinal second match on April 5.
On March 2, the Dutchman played the entire 90 minutes of the Catalan giants’ 1-0 victory in the first match at the Santiago Bernabeu. He did, however, tear a muscle in his right leg during Barca’s 2-1 La Liga victory over Real Madrid on March 19.
Due to the injury, De Jong was unable to participate in his team’s 4-0 league victory over Elche on Saturday, April 1. He will most likely miss the second game of the Copa del Rey semi-final.
SPORT (h/t Football-Espana) reports that there is a possibility that the Catalan powerhouses will take a shot at him in the upcoming El Clasico. The reality that the Catalan giants already possess the league trophy may influence their choice.
With one more game remaining, Barcelona leads Real Madrid by 15 points with 71 points from 27 games. Other than a possible Copa del Rey final, they don’t have any other important games with serious ramifications.
Due to a dearth of alternatives, Xavi Hernandez was forced to try out Eric Garcia in the No. 6 position against Elche. Along with De Jong, Pedri is also unable to play due to a groin problem.
Andreas Christensen (calf strain) and Ousmane Dembele (muscle injury) are both expected to miss the matchup with Real Madrid. Nevertheless, Ronald Araujo’s participation against Elche gave Xavi a huge boost after he missed international service due to a thigh injury.
Following Barcelona’s victory over Elche, Xavi Hernandez expressed his gratitude for having flexible players like Marcos Alonso, Sergio Roberto, and Frenkie de Jong at his disposal.
Roberto has the versatility to play right midfield, right back, and center midfield. Meanwhile, Alonso, who can also play as a left-back and a left wingback, has spent some time this season playing in the center of defense for Xavi. In the match against Los Franjiverdes, Roberto began in central midfield, while Alonso partnered with Ronald Araujo at center back.
Spanish tactician said following the game (h/t BarcaUniversal): “It’s amazing to have so many versatile players. Sergi can play in several positions, and Frenkie too. Marcos Alonso is excellent as a center-back.”
Due to an illness, De Jong was unable to play. The Dutchman is capable of playing as both a No. 6 and a No. 8, and in the preseason, Xavi also used him as a center-back. With 34 appearances across competitions, the 25-year-old has been crucial to the Spanish manager’s plans this season.
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