Frenkie de Jong is going through a strong phase with Barcelona, which gives the Dutchman confidence ahead of the big match against Atlético Madrid. "If you win, you take three points from them, and we will take them."
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Frenkie de Jong is going through a strong phase with Barcelona, which gives the Dutchman confidence ahead of the crucial La Liga clash against Atlético Madrid.
The midfielder has been a key figure in Barça’s recent run of form, and as the title race heats up, his leadership and quality in the middle of the park could be decisive in determining the outcome of this season’s championship battle.
Barcelona is gearing up for one of their most challenging fixtures of the season as they prepare to face Atlético Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday, March 16, at 21:00 CET. With just a single point separating the two sides, this game is expected to be intense and highly competitive. A victory for Barcelona would give them a significant advantage in the title race, while a loss could see them fall behind their direct rivals. De Jong, who has been an essential part of Barça’s midfield, knows how crucial this game is and has no doubts about his team's ability to deliver.
"The title race is extremely tight this season, and every match feels like a final," De Jong told Mundo Deportivo. "We are in good form, we are playing well, winning most of our matches, and we have confidence. Atlético is a top team, and it’s going to be tough, but we know what we are capable of. If you win, you take three points from them, and we will take them."
His words reflect the determination within the Barcelona squad. With only 11 matches left in the season, every game from now on is crucial. The standings could not be tighter, with Barcelona currently tied with Real Madrid at 57 points and Atlético Madrid right behind with 56. A slip-up in this game could have massive implications, and De Jong is aware that his team must remain fully focused for the full 90 minutes.
"Every match is different, but Atlético is a top team," De Jong emphasized. "You have to stay focused for ninety minutes or more because they can hurt you at any moment. That’s crucial they are a direct rival, and these are the kinds of games that define a season. We know their strengths, we know how they play, and we will be ready for them."
This season, Barcelona has shown resilience in difficult moments, and a large part of that is due to the consistency of players like De Jong in midfield. The Dutchman has featured in 29 official matches this season, scoring twice and providing one assist. But his impact goes far beyond numbers his composure on the ball, ability to dictate play, and intelligence in tight spaces have been crucial for Xavi’s system. His presence has been especially vital in controlling games against tough opponents, and his ability to resist pressure and drive the team forward will be essential in this clash against Atlético.
The matchup at the Wanda Metropolitano promises to be a tactical battle. Diego Simeone’s team is known for its disciplined defensive structure and aggressive pressing, making it difficult for opponents to settle into a rhythm. Atlético Madrid’s defensive solidity has been one of the key reasons why they remain firmly in the title race, having conceded only 18 goals in 27 matches this season. Despite their defensive strength, they also possess a dangerous attack, with players like Antoine Griezmann, Álvaro Morata, and João Félix capable of punishing any defensive lapse. Barcelona, on the other hand, boasts the best attacking record in La Liga, with 71 goals scored in just 26 matches, making this a battle between the league’s best attack and one of its best defenses.
De Jong’s ability to control the midfield will be crucial in breaking down Atlético’s organized setup. The Dutchman thrives in high-pressure situations, and his ability to play out from the back and transition quickly could be the key to unlocking Atlético’s defense. He has built a strong partnership with fellow midfielders Pedri and Gavi, and together, they have formed a dynamic and creative midfield unit capable of dictating the tempo of games.
Beyond the game itself, De Jong also reflected on his past clashes with the Spanish press. Over the years, the Dutchman has had to deal with intense scrutiny, particularly during times of uncertainty regarding his future at the club. Speaking to Ziggo Sport, he acknowledged how difficult it has been to deal with constant speculation in the media. "The newspapers talking about me? I've been here for a while, so I'm used to it. It can be frustrating. At some point, they made things up, so I had to speak out. But I focus on my football, and that’s what matters most."
Despite constant rumors linking him with a move away from Barcelona in the past, De Jong has always maintained his desire to succeed at the club. Since arriving from Ajax in 2019, he has established himself as a vital part of the team, and with a contract running until 2026, he remains committed to Barcelona’s long-term project.
Sunday’s game could be a defining moment in the season. A win would put Barcelona in a strong position to challenge for the title, while a loss would put them under pressure with only a handful of games left to play. De Jong’s confidence and belief in his team will be key as they head into one of the biggest matches of the season. With players like him leading the way, Barcelona will be hoping to leave Madrid with all three points and take a significant step toward reclaiming the La Liga title.
Updated: 10:47, 15 Mar 2025
