Barcelona manager Xavi has ruled out a move for Franks de Jong this summer, insisting the midfielder could ‘mark the season’ at the Camp Nou.
De Jong has been linked with a move to Manchester United shortly after it was announced that Ajax manager Erik ten Hag would take over at Old Trafford at the end of the season. The midfielder broke down under Ten Hag, enjoying a few years full of trophies at Ajax and the manager before moving to Barcelona for £ 75m.
After a brief start in his career at La Blaugrana, De Jong has regained his form since Xavi took over at the end of 2021. Since then the 24-year-old has scored seven goals as Barça climbed to the top of the table.
Speaking via Mundo Deportivo ahead of Sunday’s match against Rayo Vallecano, Xavi emphasized that De Jong would not leave Barcelona.
He said: “Frankie [de Jong] is very important to me, the team, and the team. He is a footballer who has to mark the season with his quality and personality.
“He has been at a very good level since I arrived and he should continue to score goals, help, and be a leading figure in the sport.
“He could be one of the best midfielders in the world in the years to come.”
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