Frenkie de Jong talks Chelsea, Manchester United bids and role at Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong has been an enigma at Barcelona over the past year or so. Despite being regarded as one of the most talented midfielders in European football, the player has struggled with prominence in the Barça squad.

In a recent interview with Ziggosport (h/t Fabrizio Romano), de Jong has recently opened up on his transfer saga earlier this summer. He also spoke about his role in the first team, backing himself to do well in order to establish himself as a starter.

“Chelsea and Man Utd bids? I was calm. I decided in May I wanted to stay. My opinion never changed,” de Jong said when asked about his future.

The Dutchman went on to confirm his desire to remain at Barcelona in the summer, even amid widespread speculations linking him to a move away from Camp Nou.

“I remained calm, then you know the pressure will start coming from all sides. I wanted to stay at Barça so it never made me confused,” he added.

De Jong was also asked about rumours about Sergio Busquets potentially leaving Camp Nou in 2023, and Barcelona scouting Ruben Neves as a replacement.

“It depends on what the club wants, and what I want. I want to play in a role that suits my strengths most and where I get the best out of me,” the player responded.

Since the start of the season, de Jong is yet to establish himself as a first-team regular for Barcelona. He has made only three starts in the league, falling behind Busquets, Pedri and Gavi in the pecking order.

However, with Busquets producing a forgettable performance in midweek, many believe de Jong could given a surprise start when Barcelona take on Real Madrid in the revered El Clasico later this evening.