In a recent interview, Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong shared his insights into working with the legendary Xavi Hernandez as the head coach.
The Barcelona midfielder shed some light on Xavi’s tactical acumen and attention to detail that the Spaniard offers.
De Jong heaped praise on Xavi
De Jong emphasized Xavi’s coaching prowess, stating (h/t Mundo Deportivo), “I think he is a good coach tactically, and he focuses on things and details.”
The Dutchman highlighted the invaluable perspective that Xavi brings to the training ground, drawing from his illustrious career as a former midfielder.
“Being a former midfielder, he has details that can help you, and when you watch a video with him to analyze a certain shot, he makes you pay attention to things and gives you good advice,” he said.
Back in his day, Xavi was indeed one of the best midfielders in the world and had appeared in over 700 competitive matches for Barcelona.
De Jong on Xavi’s ‘change of mentality’ comment
Last week, Xavi Hernandez stressed the importance of a change in mentality following Barcelona’s poor form in the league.
When asked about Xavi’s recent remarks, de Jong explained, “Yes, I think he meant that we are late in entering the match sometimes. It’s good that he tries to make us feel danger and the need for change.”
De Jong admitted that while the team successfully qualified for the Champions League, their start in the domestic league was suboptimal, resulting in unnecessary dropped points.
“In the Champions League we qualified, but in the league, we did not start well and there were points we lost unnecessarily,” the midfielder said.
With that in mind, de Jong and the rest of his teammates must put up a good performance as Barcelona take on Atletico Madrid at home later this evening.
