FC Barcelona returned to winning ways in La Liga with a resounding 5-1 victory over Mallorca at the Son Moix Stadium. It was a remarkable statement by the Catalan giants, especially against a Mallorca side that had conceded just five goals at home all season. In one night, Barça doubled that tally, with goals from Raphinha (brace), Ferran Torres, Frenkie de Jong, and Pau Victor sealing the commanding win.
While the team’s collective performance stood out, it was Frenkie de Jong’s impactful cameo off the bench that stole the spotlight. The Dutch midfielder, often under scrutiny in recent weeks, reminded everyone of his immense quality in a thrilling 18-minute display.
De Jong has endured a challenging period, including boos from Barça fans during a recent match against Brest at the Montjuïc Stadium. However, his performance against Mallorca was a complete turnaround. Substituted on in the 72nd minute, he wasted no time in making his mark, scoring one goal and assisting another in a scintillating display.
Playing as a #10, a role he has not occupied regularly in recent seasons, De Jong thrived with freedom in the final third. His ability to time late surges into the box and execute quick link-up play proved instrumental in dismantling Mallorca’s defense.
De Jong’s stats from the game underline his influence:
Expected Goals (xG): 0.22
Expected Assists (xA): 0.44
Pass Accuracy: 80% (4/5)
Dribbling Success Rate: 100%
Ground Duels Won: 1/1
These numbers highlight his decisive impact in just 18 minutes. His performance evoked memories of his time under former Barça manager Ronald Koeman, when he was deployed as a box-crashing midfielder, often delivering key goals and assists.
De Jong’s resurgence comes after a long-term injury, and the midfielder acknowledged the importance of patience during this period:
“I have to be patient with everything going on. I know that’s the way it is, so I’ll keep doing what I do, working hard, head down, and at some point, we’ll see how it ends.”
While defensive lapses have been a concern for De Jong this season, his success in a more advanced role could provide a solution to his critics.
At just 27 years old, De Jong still has plenty to offer Barcelona. His impressive display against Mallorca is a strong statement that he deserves more opportunities in an advanced role. With this performance, he has silenced critics and reminded fans why he remains one of the most talented midfielders in world football.
Whether Hansi Flick continues to utilize him in this role remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: if this is the beginning of De Jong’s resurgence, Barcelona fans have every reason to be excited.