Madrid –
Frenkie de Jong’s performance on fire continued to win Barcelona in the Copa del Rey. Ronald Koeman believes that De Jong is now a more complete player.
The Dutch midfielder scored Barcelona’s winning goal when he beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1 in the last 16 on Thursday (28/1/2021). From Lionel Messi’s pass to Jordi Alba on the left, De Jong slipped behind the Rayo defense which ended with a close-range shot into the top corner of the net.
It was De Jong’s fifth goal in 27 appearances for Barca throughout 2020/21, or the third in his last four matches. The 23-year-old has surpassed his record last season, scoring two goals and four assists in 42 appearances.
Barcelona coach Koeman praised the appearance of the player who was hooked up from Ajax. Frenkie de Jong’s sharpness could not be separated from his more active role in helping the attack.
“We need him,” said coach Dutch origin was quoted Football-Espana. “We need our midfielders to be offensive, and he helps attack from behind.”
“We have spoken with him to help his attacking game and scored more than one goal per season. He is now more complete than when he played for Ajax.”
Despite winning, Barcelona needed hard work to get rid of Rayo. Blaugrana was shocked by the home team after conceding a goal from Fran Garcia in the 63rd minute. Lionel Messi brought Barca level six minutes later, before De Jong’s goal ended the game.
“After trailing 0-1, we reacted well and won the match. We could score even more goals. But the most important thing is that we won this duel,” said Koeman after the Rayo vs Barcelona match.
(rin / krs)
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