Frenkie de Jong made a significant impact during Barcelona’s dominant 5-1 victory against Mallorca, coming off the bench to deliver a goal and an assist.
His contributions were instrumental in breaking the home team’s resistance, securing a much-needed win for the Catalans.
This triumph was crucial for Barcelona, especially given their recent struggles to find consistency. A convincing victory on a challenging pitch like Mallorca’s boosts team confidence, setting the stage for improved performances ahead.
“It was very important to win to regain confidence. Although the important thing is the victory, winning 1-5 on a difficult pitch like Mallorca’s gives us confidence to move forward.
“However, it’s only one game and there’s still a long way to go,” he told Barça One.
Speaking on return on injury
Frenkie de Jong was on the scoresheet against Mallorca. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)
After recently returning from injury, de Jong’s return to action has been closely watched. When asked about his satisfaction with getting minutes again, the Dutch midfielder offered a measured response, emphasising patience.
He acknowledged the challenges of recovery but remained focused on his work ethic and dedication, hinting that he is determined to keep pushing until everything falls into place.
“I have to be patient with everything there is, I know it is like that, so I am going to continue doing what I do, working, head down and at some point we will see how it ends,” he added.
Pau Victor’s take
Another standout in the match was Pau Victor, who added the final touch to Barcelona’s victory with a late goal in the 84th minute.
Despite limited playing time this season, he expressed confidence in his abilities and his readiness to make the most of every opportunity provided by the manager.
“I’m very confident, I feel good physically. I will always make the most of the minutes the manager gives me, whether it’s one or 90,” he said.
Pau Victor made an instant impact against Mallorca. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)
Competing with a world-class striker like Robert Lewandowski has not deterred Victor; instead, it has motivated him to learn and grow. He sees his competition with Lewandowski as an invaluable learning experience and is committed to seizing any chance he gets.
“When you have the best striker in the world as competition, it’s difficult to get minutes, but I try to learn a lot from him every day and take advantage of the opportunities that are given to me.”
His thoughts on Hansi Flick
The young forward also praised Hansi Flick’s management of the squad. According to him, the manager’s ability to keep every player engaged and motivated, even those who see less game time, is exceptional.
“It’s a great virtue that he has, I think he’s a very, very good manager, and he has us all at 100%.”
Flick’s approach has fostered a strong sense of unity within the team, ensuring that every player feels valued and ready to contribute whenever called upon.
This unity and focus could prove vital for Barcelona as they look to build on this emphatic victory and maintain momentum throughout the season.
“It’s something that sometimes isn’t entirely easy because those who don’t play are sometimes angrier or find it harder to stay connected.
“However, this is a very united dressing room, where we all work together and want to contribute no matter what,” he concluded.