Is Frenkie de Jong Barca’s long-term CDM? | Barcelona 3-0 Villarreal Tactical Analysis

[@spinningstatics]

While Busquets is able to beat opposition presses with perfect passing, it becomes difficult when the opponents' players decide to sit back and anticipate the pass. De Jong on the other hand has the ability to drive forward with the ball which can more often drag opposition players away from his teammates. This is one of his most unique abilities. I'm sure with time he will further improve his defensive awareness for his CDM position but he is on the right path overall - even better if he has someone to cover for him while he makes his forward piercing runs. Hence why I believe Barca does not need their 2 fullbacks to run forward at the same time. Guardiola at City always makes sure that 1 fullback covers in defense/midfield while the other makes forward offensive runs.

[@wallahhabibiiii]

Guardiola even went as far as playing Walker alongside rodri in a double pivot, against Bournemouth for example We need a better rb than Roberto, mannn

[@kkpw12]

Yes, I guess as he said when Araujo and Kounde are present it will be easier to get forward and minimize the risk

[@kkpw12]

@@wallahhabibiiii agree..need some worldclass RB

[@polo4064]

@@kkpw12 Name 5 worlclass RB now....

[@spinningstatics]

@@wallahhabibiiii yep Roberto is not naturally a RB.. I'd prefer playing Balde as a RB while Alba plays LB. Balde is left footed but playing on the right would allow him to close down players who are cutting inside on his strong foot. He could act as a double pivot when Frenkie makes forward runs

[@ratikonjaria7648]

not using talent like frenkie is a crime. rather than searching new busquets baca should adapt it's tactics and philosophy around this kind of players

[@gonpow]

De Jong gavi pedri is their best midfield

[@keionadams01]

I'm really glad you mentioned how fast Frenkie got the ball out of his feet because that in particular is what sped up the match for us, instead of Busi's controlled backwards passes or methodical forward passes at times, Frenkie just moved the ball on and continued to for most the game, he took his fair share of gambles with dribbling and even lost the ball at times but the tempo he created completely shifted the way we play and I believe that assisted our attack with finding them in space and not giving the defense time to set up

[@jaylucas8352]

He is far more an asset than Busi at this point , much more dynamic midfield

[@mengekyosyaringanKamui]

The risk of him losing the ball could be overcome with gavi & pedri (other to midfielders back him up on the defence)

[@asdzxcz1360]

But with Frenkie there is a problem that he needs a lot of time to make a pass. He often carries the ball, in some situations too long, as it's better to play faster ball and open a chance.

[@gronz]

@@asdzxcz1360 no

[@lozerisdead999]

did people just forget De jong basically played as a pivot at ajax?? he was a dominant sweeper style DM who could shut down and man mark while also driving forward… not sure why everyone thinks he would’ve been anything but that for barca. Never understood why he was forced to be a more attacking player

[@user-kh7zf]

At Ajax he played in a 4231, where the interplay with the second defensive midfielder would allow FDJ the liberty to drive forward and be a playmaker without compromising defense. This is something multiple Barcelona coaches have tried to replicate, but this was an ill-suited role for Busquets, hence why Barça keeps reverting to a 433. FDJ can absolutely be an excellent DM, but that will require adjustments from the other midfielders, since FDJ fills the role very differently than Busquets. Once they get that right, we'll see an excellent midfield trio, but that will mean Xavi needs the guts to bench his captain.

[@sofiyatuss9285]

@@user-kh7zf no way we’re benching busi. I know he’s not the best but he’s still crucial and our most reliable midfielder. We‘ll do that next or in a couple seasons. So far its not bad and we dont really have problems with our midfield. Busquets is staying on the field.

[@jesusvega1399]

If I’m being honest Frankie has always been calm and smart playing in the back. Even when he was in Ajax, all his plays usually started from his own half of the field. That’s why he was purchased from them

[@marlonh.6759]

Not sure why people doubt FDJ's DMF abilities when he made the UCL team of the season in that exact role, playing for Ajax, when they nearly made the final. FDJ is top quality. He's unpredictable in every aspect Busquets isn't...

[@aaronstormchannel]

I used to be a big fan of TalkFCB, have to say Mr.Purist got my heart right now. Best Barca channel in the tube by far. Love it, keep up the good work!

[@neededmoose8958]

Talkfcb inspires fans. He may not be the best analyst but important for the fan base. Purist has the best game analysis for Barca in my opinion

[@Culefrank]

i watch both channels and its like the complete barca experience

[@aaronstormchannel]

@@neededmoose8958 agreed

[@surfiesta86]

I like TalkFCB but he can be a little to intense for my takes at times

[@naldoprescott4572]

I think they should work together lol both men do a great job

[@paulodili751]

Frankie is smart enough to vary his game and become a great pivot. He needs to be trusted to play more in that role to grow into it and we should be patient with him as he evolves. Over to you Xavi.

[@kumarmusic6691]

Frenkie

[@owanmah2933]

After playing for over a decade I feel like most teams have busquets figured out. Frenkie provides a whole new dimension to the game. Safe to say we’re lucky he stayed this summer.

[@COLDCOLE-17]

But you don't deserve him at all the way Barcelona treats him is criminal and luckily for him he will leave soon :)

[@NJ-eo2oc]

@@COLDCOLE-17 Source: trust me bro! put the pipe down son and stop spreading nonsense. he'll stay for a long time

[@diegogonzalezvazq]

I love the way he waits for players to press him before making a pass. Obv it’s a very common thing, but the way he does it is in such a unique manner

[@jaylucas8352]

He plays like a point guard in basketball, draw in the defense then release the pass with the space. Genius this FDJ is

[@diegogonzalezvazq]

@@jaylucas8352 that’s a very good analogy acc

[@dodododatdatdat]

Ye its his signature strength imo. He's a unique player no doubt. He's got a lot of potential and some time to grow, because he is, regrettably, not perfect.

[@sgr3239]

I have noticed that Lewa is frustrated because of poor decision making by ansu in initial minutes, after first two goals it ended, but when second half resumed he was again begging for the ball. I think Chemistry between players need to improve a lot. Also can u analys how lewa takes positions to recieve ball and passes recieved to him.!

[@novice4648]

"I have noticed that Lewa is frustrated because of poor decision making by ansu in initial minutes" Well observed ... Fati is behaving like Mbappe, even though he has not reached Mbappe's standard yet. This is not healthy as a team.

[@wouterlevering4296]

As someone who's been following Frenkie since his debut at Willem II, he is and was never a CDM!! He's the one who needs to be free to roam, pick the ball up from just in front of the defence and make runs to connect the whole team. He's the one that speeds up the play, or slows it down and needs to be on the ball as much as possible. He's not a defender, but when in his free roaming position, he can recover the ball like no other. He's not the player to give assist or score goals, but the one who dictates the play as is the connection between the defence and the attack. He does however need a really solid defence behind him and that's what's lacking for years now at Barca. Of course he can work hard, but he's not a midfielder that would track back and defend hard. He doesn't have the fysical strenght for that. And he doesn't need to, because he needs to be agile to make those turns and runs. In the game against Villareal, it was one of the first times, i really saw he was used in the right way. It's the way he played at Ajax and still plays at the Dutch National Team. Please Barca coaches, don't confuse him any longer....

[@goreds551]

Best comment made here, a lot of Barca fans have had more than enough time to observe him but still had not figured out the simple but true point you mention. The point that he's at his best when he has the freedom to collect the ball between the two central defenders and go forward with the ball at his feet. Giving De Jong this freedom every match with strong defenders behind him is what brings out the best in him. Had he had better defenders behind him from the start he could have continued his form from Ajax a lot sooner. The club wasted a lot of time.

[@3mrmostafa]

FDJ had lost 3 years of his career to lazy managers who couldn't risk it at all to bench Busquets gradually and replace him with frenkie If these years were used well to develop him for what lacks him to be in this role we wouldn't be here asking that question if he is able to play pivot or not

[@animesh30]

I was really happy to see FDJ and Gavi complementing each other defensively specially from ball recovery perspective. This really gives creative freedom to Pedri to move ahead and make better decisions with forward passes.

[@DudeWithTheFro1]

frenkie showed everyone including xavi. he is a star. not just does he wins balls and is aggressive and smart in the press he is very creative and smart. also very dangerous offensively. gavi and him will dominate defensively on the midfield. pedri can be genius offensively. busi to slow and cant handle the work required to play xavi high press

[@willg1088]

Gavi and pedri 0 assists 0 goals Barca fans : xavi and inesta wow best talents in the world lol

[@ashwinmp2702]

I feel like Balde if given more chances can devolop to be a really good lb

[@Darduel]

he just gave a brilliant game vs bilbao

[@dodododatdatdat]

No doubt in my mind. Frenkie is astonishingly good, yet not fully recognised as such. We (Dutch) were surprised he didnt play every game, and let himself get treated the way he was at Barca. He will be one of the best, mark my word

[@anonymoususer602]

Can you please tell us what to make of Pablo Torre situation. Does he not suitable for the style of play Xavi wants?

[@DARELIOchanel]

De'jong looks like a new park ji sung he never tired and apponent's attack. Good job De'jong You make the difference in attack's. 👍

[@dudeshiya]

You are impressed?! And that he learns the pivot role? Come on man, I appreciate your analysis but he does not have to learn it, he knows it. He has been better than Busquets for many years now, in fact since his breakthrough year in Ajax. Look how he bossed it in Ajax and how he bosses it in the Netherlands team. The problem with De Jong is that he was never allowed to fully play this role under any coach because Barcelona never wanted to replace a finished Busquets for some reason. And for me, Busquets should have been De Jong's sub as soon as he arrived in FCB. But no coach dared putting Busquets on the bench for some reason, including Xavi. Xavi only decided against Busquets when his own coaching position is at threat. Remember, FCB lost 8-2 to Bayern for that very same structure of Pique, Busquets and Roberto. And they have been destroyed in UCL every time they play this structure. At least Pique does not play much anymore, but if Xavi wants to change anything and keep his coaching role, he needs to drop Busquets for good, as well as Roberto. And use Busquets in a different role for the team, more as a voice in the dressing room like what Puyol did in his final years at FCB and what Xavi did in his final year too. But Busi is done. And Roberto is a free loader. FCB is the only team among champions league team, where this guy would play first team football.

[@jaylucas8352]

You speak the truth man. These people are biased for too long already , Busi is a senior citizen

[@novice4648]

Bro, you bare it all on the veterans (Busquets, Pique, Alba, Roberto) ... wonderfully. Too bad, the Barca coaches dare not admit their era were over. "Xavi only decided against Busquets when his own coaching position is at threat." This is a perfect statement ... cheers.

[@footballhipstertv]

Xavi loves really wide wingers but as soon as he deviated from this we had one of our best game of the season. I love Xavi but I think he just needs to find the balance between what he likes and what works.

[@novice4648]

"I love Xavi but I think he just needs to find the balance between what he likes and what works." Beautifully put ...

[@ameyawaddo9481]

Almighty Frenkie de best 6 in the world 🇱🇺🇱🇺🇱🇺😁😁😁😁💪💪💪💪🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️💕💕

[@IAMsterdam1071]

Weird to see a video about Frenkie basically describing how he played at Ajax. Like it’s some discovery he does well in the role that made you buy him.

[@HIM-lk6of]

Another quality analysis. Concerning Xavi changing the wide options in the forward line, I welcome it. I agree that with Fati and Ferran we have two players that are more associative, make better decisions and are willing runners off the ball. Much more than Dembele and Raphinha. Our overall play was good and the wide men had a lot of joy. One thing I'd add is that Villarreal played in a mid block and doesn't just cede possession choosing to defend their penalty area then counter. That tactic played into our plans. I'm curious to see how we fare while having two inside forwards on against a quality team in a deep block. Alba is indeed a willing runner, always on his bike looking to get in behind. He gets his share of assists and goals through quality and sheer persistence as I find his crossing and decision making very erratic. Balde is a different kind of player as you pointed out, more skillful with the ball, more a carrier/dribbler and one still playing within himself. I suspect he's somewhat conservative as he doesn't want to make big errors then drop down the pecking order. Xavi needs to assure him that once he plays well he will get minutes and green light him to attack more freely while improving his off ball runs. FdJ had a storming game. A really refreshing and positive performance. I think the way Villarreal played benefitted him. However I'm an advocate for Barca using him as our pivot as we transition away from Busi. As you mentioned his ability to drive with the ball to break lines then find runners is crucial against deep blocks... that's a different weapon that Busi doesn't possess. I also believe the jury is out on him defensively against more accomplished units. The point about fast, athletic CB who could also play the ball cannot be emphasize enough. That is a crucial element and safety net for how we aim to play. Good signs, I suspect eventually the forward line will consist of one inside forward, CF and a winger (Ferran looked a player reborn on the RW). Xavi is tweaking and players are returning from injury. Let's see what we create.

[@lator1941]

wonderful comment 👌🏾

[@dodododatdatdat]

Yea a joy to read my bro.

[@kkpw12]

Nice video! I was wondering what's your opinion with Kessie in the scenario? and Should Xavi experiment Double pivot 4-2-3-1? with Frankie and Kessie?

[@ariyanmj1146]

It would be good and kessie would provide defensive help while frankie goes up with the ball.

[@TanayVaidya]

I want to see Frenkie and Kessie starting together more often. Frenkie is the better technician, but Kessie has the defensive awareness. We've only ever seen it once from what I recall, that too against weaker opposition in Viktoria Plzen.

[@MarcelMatani]

kessie is great but at this point gavi is already better and is better for the chemistry

[@Fonziggy]

I feel like Jordi Alba compliments Fati well cause he wants to come inside and make short passes as opposed to Dembele who wants to receive the ball wider. Dembele always starts from the wide position so it doesn't give Jordi much opportunity to make those overlapping runs. Balde doesn't make those overlapping runs without the ball as much as Jordi so Balde is a better fit with Dembele on the wing. Do you think Kessie is ever going to fit into this midfield?

[@bram9204]

How is this a surprise? Before Barcelona Frenkie was the best in the world in that position at Ajax and the Dutch team

[@john_mckinney]

Frenkie is so good he will make you forget the name of that guy who played with Barcelona for so many yers with no 10

[@thamsanqawisdomsiziba3552]

The greatest improvement we saw against Villareal is the shape, We had a good shape that I still feel needs a bit of improvement. When we are attacking we need to always have 3 defenders be it its Frenkie who sits in between them or covers for one full back or its a full back who stays in behind. Its the third game where Frankie has really thrived this season in that position and i believe he can be the future in that role. My 11 for the next match though will include a front line of Dembele …Lewa ….Fati and I believe this line up will be more dangerous than the one we saw. and then keep the mid as is though we may try Kessie because I have seen Kessie-De Jong and Pedri working so well especially in covering up for each other though i like the Pedri-De Jong -Gavi one more for their technical ability. Alba- Garcia-Kounde- Roberto but roberto playing more as an inverted full back

[@ethanpenaranda5518]

Barca have never been the most defensive side, they just relied on a aggressive passionate center back duo, like pique and Mascherano. Kounde and araujo are becoming great successors to them, with this style they’ll have a lot of work to do but they are eager and ready

[@willg1088]

Pique? Lol The dude scoring own goals since valdez days

[@the_fourth]

Great midfielders are always the smartest ones on the pitch. Kevin de Bruyne easily adapted to Pep's CM role from a traditional No. 10 CAM. I don't see why FDJ cannot adapt to the single pivot role. Together with Gavi he can give a tough time to any opposition.

[@ufcchampion3686]

Don’t compare

[@69-venkateshvikram93]

Problem with frenkie is even if he becomes the pivot we need, would he stay after this season, the board will definitely try to push him out if his salary is reduced and after how he was treated last summer i doubt hed take a pay cut

[@novice4648]

If the board is smart (don't follow the rookie coach this time), keep Frenkie ... And Barca should play [pedri, frenkie+kessie, gavi] against strong teams ... esp Bayern with 5 men strong mid-field, even Real Madrid. Yes.. Xavi wants silva ... but Barca has no $$ ... so [pedri, frenkie+kessie, gavi/pablo] is a good quartet.

[@ewutermohlen]

Let the guy grow his confidence and he will deliver. Competent defenders behind him wil help a lot as well. He has already proven how good he was at Ajax against elite teams. And he is one of the rare few players in existence that can play the CDM role with so much control. So yes Frenkie wil definitely be a key player for Barcelona in the future. If not then Xavi loses out

[@lethaboelvismahlangu4869]

De Jong is a great player he drives the ball and attack a lot what Busquete lacks he is clinical with his passes but cannot driver and attack.

[@FED911]

Barca should play double pivot on some occasion, that way you can give FDJ more free role, . Pair him with Kessie or Gavi, but Xavi has to tell Gavi to use his head more, to know when to chase the ball and when to defend in the zone.

[@mikos6353]

Frenkie was really amazing, especially in ball winning, but I will have to see him doing well in more matches. He wanted the ball and was aggresive in the last game, but he goes invicible pretty often.

[@motionsa3259]

Frenkie De Jong was joy to watch, Bossing the whole Midfield. I was also unsure about his defensive duties as a lone pivot but I think the difference lies on Xavis Instructions. When Frenkie is playing with Busi he is needed to carry the ball so much and be in the box which makes it hard for him to cover the back line since he is not very quick. This Game he was constantly behind the Midfield which allows him to cover diffence easily without having to run back. I best believe him and gavi complement each other very well since Gavi is even more aggressive.

[@hemachandran8972]

Against Sociedad, it was very early for FDJ to commit a mistake he can be better if we regularly played him as a PIVOT he used to play at Netherlands kind of the same role with more aggressiveness.

[@clintstuarthanse5387]

it's funny we just talked about Frankie the other day😅he was amazing at cdm in this game just shows you how versatile he is. if he can keep this up an even grow into the roll,well then we'll have our replacement.

[@COLDCOLE-17]

Youre lucky if he wants to be your replacement which he probably won't because he is smart and thinks ahead unlike FCB. Barcelona became a criminal corrupt FC and is a sinking ship. I don't understand that the fans think they are in a luxury position and can demand things. Always impatient. You're not the Barcelona you were anymore and will not be for a long time. Unless you get a normal president who is willing to cut budgets and not intimidate its own players. But the arrogant mindset of this club will be its downfall and I can't say I will pity them when it happens for this horrific behaviour.

[@tjerk9023]

@@COLDCOLE-17 You act as if Barcelona is doing so bad lmao. There are other top tier clubs that failed harder. Man u for example.

[@COLDCOLE-17]

@@tjerk9023 the competitive play is definitely not the issue right now I agree, but the size of your debt is huge and all the problems are shifted towards the future. Cant run away from those things forever by selling tv right shares and threathing players to cut salaries for the club xD. Thats just weird and harmful behaviour

[@rayrecordings]

Consistency is the key. We still have to see this level of FDJ against big teams in crucial games. Like against Bayern.

[@flo3029]

agreed

[@seko2918]

Yes because Sergio can't cover the space like FDJ. The goal we conceded against Inter away is on Busi. He is dragged wide then heis too slow to cover Hakan and Hakan has all the time and space to finish right Infront of the defense. Against Inter again in Nou Camp the 2nd goal his pass is Intercepted which led to the goal which knocked us out of the UCL this year. Sergio is is done at the highest level..his perfomance against Real Madrid was just as dreadful. We should let FDJ take that position & leave politics out of this.

[@novice4648]

"Yes because Sergio can't cover the space like FDJ." Well observed ... and 2 excellent examples ... which anti-Frenkie fans will keep dumb about, on who was the cause of Barca's out of UCL group stage ... 2022-23 season. Xavi will never admit it ... Anyway, prediction is Barca will be out of Europa as well ... if [pedri, busquets, gavi] remains the mid-field starters.

[@BarcaBasto]

this probably corny yet i am gonna mention it should barcelona even it’s youth teams include a training whereby they replicate playing in a box and there’s many opponents hindering the-squad : just like it happens to us in the games _i like to see not only rapid chemistry and delivery therefor + also that they even keep the ball no matter what so you train to dribble and control and dance all in one in such a setting I imagine it desires_ *tempo, streetball mostly dribble-forth, players continuously offering thyself again and again even rotating and to be continuing all of this no slipping*

[@Daewonnni]

Barca should have built the midfield around DeJong the FIRST YEAR they bought him!!!

[@BarcaBasto]

*if we get stable i think Jordi Cruijff should be president first a one year trial*

[@asdzxcz1360]

Ferran is not that good, but anyone is better than Dembele... I completely don't understand what's going on with Dembele. Why he was playing in every match before ? He's awful at shooting, awful at dribbling, bad at passing, he's selfish, stupid and doesn't pass to teammates who have 100% chance, he rather waste a chance, basically what he's doing is losing possession... Raphinha also is very bad... Good that Xavi finally noticed that and benched them, but that was noticeable from the start of the season, maybe some losses could be avoided with more efficient wingers...

[@BarcaBasto]

--- *2 0 2 3* --- ansu - lewa - messi kvara - pedri frenkie

[@BarcaBasto]

_don’t tell me this ain’t the scariest ball_

[@jun1art]

Can Kvara switch into the right side ? He is very brilliant in the left sides, Both Gavi and Pedri does play in a lot of positions, in this game, Gavi move as a target man in-between defenders who guards Lewadowski

[@АнтонКравченко-г6н]

Is this a fifa squad? Messi hasn’t played as winger for several years. Kvara is a winger who cuts inside. The same for Fati. This is the most disbalanced squad I have ever seen. Barca doesn’t need to sign Messi, as this will harm their pressing. This squad is already sufficient to win trophies.

[@BarcaBasto]

@@АнтонКравченко-г6н narrow minded. messi literally a gamechanger. and pedri and messi can switch positions if messi wants, pedri goes right… they both can turn the switch on immediately… and if messi goes pretty much CAM : kvara adapts as he behaves like almost a double pivot in service _along_ ! disregard messi never made sense to me

[@JoshuaFCB]

Did anyone else notice Pedri was playing as a secondary striker, he was playing a target man type of striker and asked for the ball at his feet.

[@mun-emafabia6707]

I love and admire busquets a lot, but his time is up. De Jong's ball is so much beautiful and effective. He is doing the work of prime Busquets when it comes to loss of possession. Consistency is only what we need from him. I also prefer Alba on the left because we attack more than defend since Barcelona denies oppositions the ball most often. Alba just gives us a lot in attack. Personally, I prefer Ansu and Dembele on the wings though.

[@josec8896]

Don't be like Madrid fans, Frankie played good but he plays like that 1/4 games. Playing with him is a gamble, Sergio is way more consistent and at least you know what you're getting

[@COLDCOLE-17]

I hope the fans and board realizes they should be begging on their knees right know for Frenkie to stay and apologize for playing him in the wrong position then criticizing him, intimidating him, spreading fake news and benching him. I think you already lost your chances and he will leave, which is fully understandable and probably a wise move. FCB just keeps on blowing up their ego, and I used to think real madrid was the arrogant one...

[@danielsutter4565]

Busquet has been lacking his awesome quality for a long time now, let's not kid ourselves but, in the National Team he was named best player of the tournament, why? we will never know because none of the Coach at Barca did the same as what Luiz Enrique did. Now, being said that, I feel he should have done like Xavi & Iniesta did and get out w/o tarnishing his legacy as he has done and more so in this last crucial games. I do believe that Between FdJ & Nico Gonzales Barca has CDMs to last a good decade at the very least. Kessie is a beast that it seems Xavi has not wanting to released yet or does not know where he wants him to play.

[@BarcaBasto]

70 min just always put torre/kessie in sounds about right

[@rexreed4234]

Alba didn't have to defend at all. While I do think it's easier for him to fit the team while there is better defense cover in the midfield, he is not the long term solution. Balde needs to play and develop. As for Busquets, he was irreplaceable.. Six years ago. He has been living on his merits without contributing anything near what he used to. He offers nothing to the team. He can't even be counted on as a leader. Everyone is so worried about how well Frenkie or Nico will do in that role while Busquets is actively failing. He has failed well short in every area of concern attached to Frenkie especially.

[@kelvinkamdani8905]

Frenkie as a single pivot is promising, yes he sometimes still look stiff doing that role but he learn match by match he is a clever player and could addapt with any role given but u cant expect him suddenly become better than busi in just 3 or 4 matches. He needs to be developed against better team keep playing him in that position cus he give an impact for sure, its not like he cant do that role. If xavi keep trust him as the CDM for this season, next season he will become better along with pedri and gavi. We will get the solid mifield trio next season cus they playing together a lot and create a chemistry

[@Leo18408]

Hey! I find this chanel amazing, will spam it ( in a good way) on all the spanish chanels about Barcelona I follow! Keep up the good work!

[@Ketan1717]

Frankie gets vulnerable while counter attacks which is the case of most of our players. The solution to this is more able defenders which we luckily and finally have now. Frankie doesn't need to replace busi, he can just play in the role and do what he does best. We can and have to move on from busi now. No one can replace messi either, but we changed tactics. So its the same with busi we have to accept and move on for more innovative and advanced barca positioning.

[@dr.swapnilbhoyar2206]

Tbh de Jong gone through so many transition up until his career in ajax he was a box to box midfielder, in Netherland his a defensive midfielder and in barca he played all the roles be it box to box midfielder, pivot or CB too but every time he got this opportunities he made the most out of it and I don't know about others but his a perfect footballer for me yeah he can lose ball at times but his ball carrying capacity is exceptional and as for me he should be a starter in each and every match.

[@avineshblah5739]

Yeah right what more do you expect just give the guy some time and proper guidance he's a gem. I can't believe they tried to force him out while they paid huge sums for useless players over the years and when it comes to a good one they're like nah just kick him out

[@MarcelMatani]

@@avineshblah5739 honestly barca will not find a better cdm to play with pedri and gavi de jong is our best option better than kessie and busquets

[@ConEmJee]

Amazing video , it is Frenkie for me.

[@davidvalencia129]

I hope he learns to have the tactical awarness of Busquets and I hope he keeps this attitude. FDJ is kinda of a slacker and has had poor attitude. Hope he keeps this up and accept a wage cut.

[@NeoDrizel]

Dope analysis, however, I feel Ousmane also makes those runs but it needs the quick pass of which you just said Xavi recommends control instead of those risky pases

[@sajjadsa84]

Frenkie needs to forget Busquest and make the pivot role its own. Just like Busquest invented himself.

[@deeemigaming9089]

If we have a solid defence (auoujo and kounde) and an inverted wing back then I think fdj can shine lake a diamond in dm role. RB like Roberto is a good option but Roberto is the one who is attacking but I want FDJ to make vertical runs and open space for our strikers. That's why I think floyth (from Villarreal) or dalot can be a good options

[@novice4648]

How about this ... ? fati lewy dembele pedri pablo frenkie kessie Christensen Kounde Araujo ...

[@MrManandevil]

Barca had a good game because it was a low block team and there is one major concern that is not being addressed. In cases of teams that press high and generally stay up the pitch a winger will be a must but I don’t see the team changing flanks in counter attacks. Even in match against Real Madrid both Dembele and Raphina were getting frustrated as the barca mid were not providing them with long balls during attack transitions and flanks were also not changed.

[@Kingside88]

You're analasys is really a technical masterclass! It's something above the emotional headlines

[@jaylucas8352]

Yes , Ferran and Ansu are much better, because they Augment Lewandowski. So the way to break a low block is get the ball deep near the 18 on the sides of the box and then a short pass to the center. This negates the man advantage of the defense and isolates the forward as the defense is occupied w marking other attackers. The two goals in the box happened exactly this way, and the outside the box shot happens because they are forced to mark the other attackers which opens space for Lewy. . This is why these 3 forwards are more effective than The previous lineup. They attack as a unit, not individuals and just cross and pray. The higher possession level of Ferran adds to this setup , as it creates more opportunities for combining near the box.

[@elbeekb4331]

If jules kuonde wasn't available and didn't play against Villarreal,, I'm sure the results would've been very different...nothing against pique but so happy for the presence of kuonde... I'm sure u all saw the many instances where pique would've lost the duel but kuonde handled it perfectly

[@praful7867]

Couldn't have summed it better, kounde & Araujo r teams soul. If kounde was there in inter game. We would have won that game for sure

[@_.Goat21]

In my opinion frenkie de Jong is not capable to play as the single pivot for the long term he’s jus a short term fix on Busquets old age and no other options. Barca need to give frenkie full freedom to carry the ball forward because that’s what’s he best at, defending in big games he’s not someone u want as a dm. Playing frenkie as an 8 along with pedri and adding a dm like bennacer from Milan zubimendi from sociedead or Enzo from Benfica will make our midfield more balanced and complete, less likely to get hit successfully on counter and reduces defensive pressure and responsibility on our centre backs and cms in pedri Gavi and frenkie.

[@prosperdaveanthonyrandolph8234]

he's not an 8,he's a deep lying playmaker

[@prosperdaveanthonyrandolph8234]

he's not an 8,he's a deep lying playmaker

[@alexandermends9893]

Enzo is not a dm

[@Eric-hu2dw]

I dont see a future for fjd at barca if he doesnt going to play as DM. If he succeed this season he will be our future otherwise he s gone. Great player but not meant to be

[@_.Goat21]

@@alexandermends9893 he can be used in a double pivot with frenkie they both excel in double pivots

[@BarcaBasto]

it feels unfair how we can go in on these legends of ours on the flip side it’s not fair to us how they either had themselves remain at this club and not left last transfer window _or_ that they aren’t humble *cause* it’s not that bad that they are around and this obviously is that last season of them buttt how are you Expecting? you should prefer see [and let] xavi have his-best-team out there always & you receiving minutes is a nice win _luckily_ for u ` like that

[@BarcaBasto]

give xavi his space and you helping him instead of him supposedly helping you with minutes *min 70 that’s to what you should feel connected to seniors*

[@tio2261]

The problem is De Jong mobility is his highest quality and playing by a similar style of Busquets would kinda nerf him

[@yankeeklu7909]

The biggest de jong hater finally giving him his props

[@Culefrank]

loving the analysis videos, keep it up!!!

[@pxm3097]

Really think Frenkie, Pedri, and Gavi are perfect starters for the present and future in the midfield. We need a player with great passing and dribbling ability at the pivot to be press-resistant and disrupt the mid/low blocks. FDJ is a perfect fit for that. Concerning his Defensive role, he is more athletic to cover the spaces. With the right defensive guidance, he could be great defensively, especially with Kounde and Araujo at the back. He is the only young player in Europe right now to have the smartness of the Regista. As Gavi, we have heavy presser for high intensity and we are all aware of Pedri's magic. With the right guidance, these three can be a generational midfield trio.

[@janith077]

Bro i really wanna know whats kessie’s role in this team. I really feel for him. He is a quality player but he is not getting the chances to prove himself. Just few minutes in most of the games

[@olawd5599]

Frenkie has already played in that role before. It wasn't really an experiment. In his time at Ajax, he played the pivot role really well.

[@jaylucas8352]

Frenkie, with Gavin intensity and Pedris creativity , is a huge midfield , yes Busquets should simply retire.

[@novice4648]

"Frenkie, with Gavin intensity and Pedris creativity , is a huge midfield , yes Busquets should simply retire." In my opinion, [pedri, frenkie+kessie, pablo] is currently the optimal mid-field quartet. Individual intensity is no use ... a good team can absorb it. Bayern has proved it using a 5 men strong mid-field in away game ... Frankfurt has proved it earlier last season. Gavi was worn out by the ~60min ... in that Bayern's away match. Isn't the mid-field lapse caused Barca that game ... in the 2nd half ?? High intensity and pressing ... must be done as a SYSTEM.

[@giornogiovanna845]

Why not give Pedri a free man role🤷🏾‍♂️ Anyone want to give any feedback on this?

[@unstoppableExodia]

I’m really start ling to once again believe Frenkie can make that CDM role his own. If he dominates against Bayern and can lead s revival for the treaty of the season is welcome it. I’d still like Barca to sign Ruben Neves on a free or cheap with his contract winding down

[@chevito6]

We needa change our formation and tactics against certain oppositions. Double pivot of Kessie and De Jong with Pedri in a more advanced role could really break the lines of certain teams.

[@novice4648]

" Double pivot of Kessie and De Jong with Pedri in a more advanced role" Yes ... yes. For strong teams whose play involves 5 men strong midfield (e.g Bayern), 3 mid-fielders are not enough to contain them. Worse, 2 x inexperienced U20 + 1 slow veteran ... isn't going to make it. This has been proven. Play [pedri, frenkie+kessie, gavi] ... a strong quartet mid-field is the only viable option.

[@hernanolmosvelazquez4303]

At the start of the game I was kind of nervous with FDJ being a lone pivot and Villareal started with a couple opportunities. As the game progressed, he only seemed better and better. Not only defensively covering and helping but controlling the game. You could see a few teams he would scan and remind himself he has to move back because he hasn’t played there. He should improve over time

[@jaylucas8352]

With a Kounde behind him, FRENKIE is perfect for a mobile pivot role. Busi is done.

[@BarcaBasto]

this player is pulling off a busquets for his club and country in 2022 *2.0 Ravel Morrison* 🦅

[@polo4064]

Ravel mi bbc 😂😂😂

[@polo4064]

Ravel is a fail talent never leave uo to him name now he's play for us and him nuh good cah we nah go WC and nobody nah go sign nobody from Mls

[@BarcaBasto]

@@polo4064 I don’t know what you’re saying but I disagree

[@polo4064]

@@BarcaBasto Type of Ravel on KZbin and you'll see biggest talent out of Manchester united but failed because of his attitude and company he has play at more clubs than even ztlan

[@BarcaBasto]

@@polo4064 I’ve clearly stated *2022* 🤦‍♂️

[@MarcelMatani]

de jong cdm pedri lcm and gavi rcm we have the perfect midfield trio and no one should doubt de jong as a cdm yes kessie is a good player but i think de jong just works better for barca kessie is a great additonal option though but i just dont see him playing ahead of de jong or gavi

[@willg1088]

Gavi pedri 0 goals. 0 assists. Bad even in the euopea league Barca fans : theyre our new inesta and xavi lol Just look at how real madrid handles their talents slowly and make them world class Pedri and gavi are no where near big games like bayern

[@lovecand7minecrafthediamon834]

I think frenkie can become that pivot I always said training a player for certain position takes time and that judging frenkie from 1 game where he plays pivot to rest busquets isn't valid you need to play him there constantly to give him confidence and learn the role more

[@HuanTheIntelligent]

ya i think that's true, just that this month is very packed with matches, and all are tough opponents. Xavi probably need be a bit conservative and choose Busquets as the pivot role due to this reason.

[@olivermirez6667]

Terrific analysis, man. I'm glad KZbin's algorithm brought me to your channel. Keep up the good work, mate.

[@ijamaaal8542]

We need to adapt our system to fit how Frenkie plays and we will succeed. He is a top quality player that gives a lot and we need to adapt to his character as a player. Xavi must adapt a system that works with Frenkie and he will be the next pivot we are looking for the next 10 years. For sure he is not Busi and doesn’t need to be the next Busi. The problem is deep down Xavi want a player with similar characteristics of Busi and they will try to explore the market for a CDM in winter / next summer.

[@MarcelMatani]

i dont think they will de jong is the perfect cdm for barcelona

[@ijamaaal8542]

@@MarcelMatani I hope too my friend

[@novice4648]

"The problem is deep down Xavi want a player with similar characteristics of Busi " Xavi is trying to re-create [inestia, busquets, xavi] trio which will never happen. His stubbornness will slow Barca's rebuild ... delay for as long as he is the coach. Better to consider inestia as the next coach. [22 Oct 2022] Andres Iniesta: “I want to return to FC Barcelona as a coach or a sporting director.”

[@chariskadosh2715]

I would prefer a double pivot of Frenkie and Busquet in a 4231 formation. I love Bellerin as RB. He is good defensively

[@novice4648]

"I would prefer a double pivot of Frenkie and Busquet in a 4231 formation. I would prefer a double pivot of Frenkie and Kessie in a 4231 formation.

[@chariskadosh2715]

@@novice4648 in my opinion, Kessie is overrated. I feel like the only reason Barca signed him is because he was a free agent. He can make some moves here and there, but he not the kind of player you can count on for impact. Xavi knows this. Watch all his matches with Barca keenly.

[@mengekyosyaringanKamui]

What an analysis Simple & great Love the comparison between alba & balde Each has their own traits of play Now i see

[@kostahajis9597]

Fati - Torres - Dembele

[@thouhgts.]

He can be. The problem has been consistency.

[@MPERTER]

This problem is not De Jong's, but the manager's. Believe it or not, since Frenkie joined Barca he hasn't played three consecutive games as DM. In fact, I don't recall him playing three consecutive games in one position. You can't expect a player to be consistent in a given position when every other day you start giving him new instruction and positions. Frenkie needs consistency in position, to play in the DM for consecutive games against different teams and shapes, and to make his movements instinctual.

[@jteri9468]

As of right now, Frenkie is a better choice for pivot than Busi. spring and next summer will tell us a more complete tale about our pivot position. Thanks for the great content Mr Purist!

[@BarcaBasto]

PICK THY PLAYER ♟ *KVARA* amazing dancer amazing provider amazing bully _our-zlatan_ ♟ *LAIMER* amazing passer amazing worker amazing breaker _our-valverde_ ♟ *MORRISON* amazing wings amazing arsenal amazing pivot _our-busquets_

[@BarcaBasto]

*ForFun* mix of musiala & di maria mix of rakitic & vidal mix of fabian & zidane

[@bolaremyjr]

For the first time I was impressed too about Frankie.. the problem with him wasn’t the ability .. it’s with the commitment.. does he really wanna learn how to play the role.. because it’s the best role under Xavi system for him… I hope he studies and learn more about the role but we still need to bring Ruben neves in as a back up

[@dodododatdatdat]

He's been studying ;) He's played this way in the Dutch national squad as well. Even played CB a couple of matches

[@bolaremyjr]

@@dodododatdatdat so what’s the problem with him trying not to stick with the role under Xavi because that’s the problem

[@dodododatdatdat]

@@bolaremyjr ehh. Youve got an aging Sergio on the same spot. Tell me why he's better

[@oishman44]

How concerned are you about dembele, raphinha and now ferran all seeming to prefer the right side? Especially if we try to bring messi back in the summer

[@ananthumuralidharan2659]

Play messi in xavis position

[@kgarodiya]

This is a big question actually, I was wondering about that too. Raphinha is anyways devoid of confidence and playing on the left is not helpful for him. If you want to get the best out of Dembele who is possibly the most devestating winger we have (Ansu?) then you cannot play him on the left. Also, seeing as to how Barca are playing with high counter pressing I don't think this team will do better with Messi in that regard and Xavi will have to adapt the system again around him - which for a last season or so doesn't seem like the smartest option. Also there is another problem with Barca and Messi which is that with Messi all the other players have a habit of switching off and just letting Messi do all the offensive legwork

[@giornogiovanna845]

​@@ananthumuralidharan2659 Where is Gavi going to play then?🤔

[@reeshavgohain]

You guys seriously believe that Messi is coming back? 😒

[@thepurist_]

I think Ferran is still very capable on the left. But I do think it’s an area of the squad that needs levelling up. Both Ferran and Ansu are still a work in progress imo. To win titles you need quality now.

[@d2xr]

your videos compliment TALKFCB channel so much.

[@nakdickson]

I want to see De Jong play in that position in big games to see how he actually deals with it.

[@polo4064]

Go watch Netherlands then buddy

[@jaylucas8352]

@@polo4064 form is temporary, class is permanent, as they say. De Jong is class, simply put.

[@nakdickson]

@@polo4064 does Netherlands play with single pivot?

[@seehleD]

This game is difficult to make any judgement calls from, we were already beating La Liga teams by 4/5 goals, so any change in personnel on this game does not prove or disprove the effectiveness of any changes to the usual lineup until this squad actually plays against top tier teams. At this point, even Lewandowski is a big question mark against elite teams, though some fare better than others, but no one has flourished against tougher opponents.

[@defecationzen]

the two questions with frenkie as pivot are: 1) since he intuitively carries a lot, he essentially distorts the shape at the back and vacates his pivot spot when he does run with the ball, which causes problems when they lose the ball or when they have to recycle possession. sure, you can pair him with another positionally aware player who can slot into his spot when he vacates it, but that probably means losing the frenkie-gavi-pedri idea; and 2) does barcelona want to sink so much money into that position with them already paying top wages to the back 3, front 3 combination and also pedri and gavi? or they can lose the forward dynamism that frenkie brings, outsource it to gavi pedri and the forward players, and save some money by bringing in or playing a more traditional, defensive minded ball rotation pivot.

[@norbertjanssen814]

This is what you get if Frenkie can direct the play from the back and he can´t with Busquets also on the field. They both do the same job in a totally different way. If Frenkie has to play on the position of Gavi he will never trully be class.

[@1995GabrielxD]

Hear me out. Usually, the criticism of Jordi Alba is his defense. Wouldn't it work if Xavi uses a defense of 3 with (Kounde, Eric, Araujo/Christensen) and 4 in the midfield with FDJ, gavi, pedri and alba. Alba would control the whole left side acting a bit like a winger so fati can play more inside. Yes you sacrifice a bit the right side but you can exploit alba's attack which is one of the best

[@josephkamanu7329]

thats how barca plays. its the reason araujo or kounde play in rb

[@jun1art]

Just don't forget Alba also is a short term solution, he needs to rotate w balde to give more experiences in the game.

[@milanger17]

Yup, everybody doesn't want to say it but we still need players like alba. While yes i actually prefer to start balde over him, but often times balde always plays it too safe, almost like he's too afraid to take the risk. Don't get me wrong tho, balde is great but he's still young and need to learn how to play with or without the ball especially when attacking