The Netherlands are out of the World Cup in heartbreaking fashion after a penalty shootout against Morocco. Thus, the [dream ends for FC Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong](/world-cup-2026/125158/frenkie-de-jongs-world-cup-dreams-end-as-netherlands-dumped-out-by-morocco), who was one of the pillars of the team.
De Jong started all four matches his country played, logging 331 minutes. He had an impressive 94.2% pass success rate, second only to Micky van de Ven, who is a defender. He also led the team alongside Jan Paul van Hecke in tackles, plus had the most interceptions.
Playing as the deepest midfielder in former Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman’s 3-4-3, De Jong’s responsibility was both to help in defense and start attacks. Against Morocco, the Netherlands surrendered possession and created very little as part of a conservative strategy, particularly after taking the lead 1-0, and then again after the Moroccans equalized. The Netherlands, it seems, wanted the penalty shootout, although they ended up going out in that fashion.
De Jong had to be substituted for Marten de Roon at the 110 minute mark with what looked like a minor injury. His performance in that match was not the most memorable, but overall he left a good impression this World Cup, according to pundits. He was hampered, some argue, by Koeman’s conservative tactics, which did not suit a player used to playing in possession-heavy systems.
De Jong earned one of the biggest trophies in his career this year, winning La Liga for the third time. Apart from winning the league, he won the Supercopa de España for the third time this year. You can add that to the two Copa del Rey triumphs from previous seasons and his collection of Dutch domestic titles with Ajax. The two biggest objectives that still elude him are to win the UEFA Champions League and to win a trophy with his national team, which has never won the World Cup.
Barcelona hope his injury is indeed minor and clears up quickly, and then that he can clear his mind of the bitter disappointment of a Round of 32 exit. While there was some debate in the press about whether he is still a guaranteed starter, De Jong has a tendency to come through when there is doubt placed on his position. His World Cup performances have only strengthened his argument.
So today’s **Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day** is:
**How do you rate Frenkie de Jong’s performances for the Netherlands at World Cup 2026? Share your marks out of 10!**
Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!