Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has expressed optimism ahead of Saturday’s crucial El Clasico, following the team’s impressive victory against Bayern Munich.
In an exclusive interview with beIN SPORTS, the Dutch international shared his thoughts on both matches and his recent return from injury.
Reflecting on the triumph against Bayern Munich earlier this week, De Jong was notably upbeat, as he said:
“It was a fantastic win against a great club, so we’re happy. I think it was a big test for us because it was against one of the best teams in Europe, so this victory gives us confidence and belief to continue this way.”
It was in a Clasico back in April that De Jong suffered an ankle injury, sidelining him for more than five months. Now back in action, De Jong gave a measured response about his long road to recovery heading into Saturday’s clash against Real Madrid.
“I’m happy to be back. I feel stronger every week now. It’s been a long process, but I’m very excited for Saturday’s match,” he shared.
When pressed about his match fitness and his readiness to start a match, the Barcelona midfielder acknowledged the complexity of his situation, saying:
“I know I’ve been out for a long time. I’ve just returned to playing a bit, but this won’t depend only on me and how I feel, but also on the coach’s decision.”
He added: “As I said, I feel better every week. I feel I’m getting back to where I was physically. But this needs minutes, matches, and training. It’s just about playing lots of football, and then I’ll be back to my best.”
De Jong suffered his injury in the previous Clasico. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
The midfielder shared his perspective on the upcoming Clasico’s significance, more so with both teams battling it out at the top of the table, as he said:
“I think Clasico matches are always exciting, but they’re even more thrilling when we’re…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-captain-confident-heading-into-real-madrid-encounter-biggest-rivalry-in-football/
Author : Michel Durant
Publish date : 2024-10-25 07:56:05
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