Frenkie de Jong enjoyed Thursday night’s Champions League clash with Newcastle United, in which Marcus Rashford was the match-winner with two goals. The 28-year-old midfielder returned to Barcelona after a minor muscle injury and immediately impressed coach Hansi Flick and the Spanish media on his comeback.
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Frenkie de Jong made a triumphant return to action as Barcelona secured a hard-fought 2-1 away victory over Newcastle United in the Champions League.
The Dutch midfielder, who had been sidelined with a minor muscle issue and was forced to withdraw from the Netherlands squad during the international break, slotted straight back into the starting eleven and completed the full ninety minutes.
For De Jong, it was the perfect comeback. After missing the league encounter with Valencia, in which Barcelona cruised to a 6-0 win, all eyes were on whether he could immediately rediscover his rhythm against a physically imposing Newcastle side at the raucous St. James’ Park. Speaking to Ziggo Sport after the final whistle, the 28-year-old admitted that while he felt the effects of the intense tempo towards the end, he was satisfied with his performance. “At the end I was more tired, I’ve only trained with the team for two days, but I managed to hold on well,” he explained, underlining both his determination and his natural fitness.
Head coach Hansi Flick was visibly pleased to welcome back one of his most trusted midfielders. The German tactician emphasized the importance of De Jong’s presence alongside Pedri, with the duo orchestrating Barcelona’s midfield play and neutralizing Newcastle’s trademark physicality. “With Pedri and Frenkie it’s not easy to press us. I think they both played a very good game,” Flick remarked in comments published by Spanish media. “I’m very happy that they played with so much confidence. We have a young team, and that’s important.” Flick’s words highlighted not only De Jong’s individual performance but also the growing maturity of a Barça squad in transition, relying heavily on emerging talent while still demanding results at the highest level.
The Spanish press, always quick to scrutinize, were almost unanimous in their praise for the Dutchman’s display. Mundo Deportivo noted how De Jong remained unfazed by Newcastle’s aggressive pressing and challenges: “The sparks were flying, but he showed his qualities on the ball. When Pedri was blocked, he gave the team confidence with his composure in possession.” Madrid-based daily AS went even further, suggesting that this was one of De Jong’s finest performances in a Barcelona shirt since his arrival from Ajax. “The Dutchman is at his best since joining Barcelona. He only lost the ball once during the entire match. The opponent stood no chance when he combined with Pedri,” they wrote, underlining the midfield partnership that could become central to Barcelona’s ambitions this season.
De Jong himself echoed the positive sentiment but remained grounded, recognizing both the challenges and opportunities within the match. “It was sometimes difficult to avoid the duels, because they press well. But I think overall we did well. We could have created a few more big chances if we had finished situations better. But we won 2-1 and we are happy with that,” he said, reflecting a typically pragmatic approach.
Beyond the tactical battle, De Jong also relished the unique experience of facing Newcastle in their famous stadium, which has quickly become one of the most intimidating grounds in the Champions League since the Magpies’ return to Europe’s top competition. “You knew beforehand that it was going to be a great match, because they want to press high and we always want to play football and attack. And they don’t hide either. They are two very different styles. They play with power and want to go forward quickly. We also want to go forward, but more through combination play. So I think it was fun to watch,” he explained, acknowledging the clash of footballing philosophies on display.
On a more personal note, the Dutch midfielder admitted that St. James’ Park lived up to its legendary reputation. “I had already heard a lot about it from the guys in the Dutch national team who play in the Premier League. The atmosphere was amazing when we walked onto the pitch, really beautiful. And the fans react to football moments, with so much emotion, great to see,” De Jong added, clearly impressed by the intensity and passion of the English crowd.
Barcelona’s victory over Newcastle not only secured three vital points in their Champions League group but also served as a morale boost ahead of a crucial domestic clash with Getafe on Sunday. For De Jong, the night was about more than just the result. It was a personal statement that he remains one of the most important pillars in Barça’s midfield, capable of dictating the tempo, breaking down opposition pressure, and providing the calm assurance that this young and evolving team desperately needs.
As the season progresses, the spotlight will continue to shine brightly on De Jong. After a summer filled with speculation about his future, his performance in Newcastle was a timely reminder of why Barcelona fought so hard to keep him. With Flick’s trust, Pedri’s partnership, and the team’s renewed confidence, Frenkie de Jong’s return could prove to be a decisive factor in Barcelona’s European and domestic campaigns this year.
Updated: 11:26, 19 Sep 2025
