It hasn’t gone as well for Frenkie de Jong or Barcelona as either party had wanted. The Dutch midfielder has struggled to establish a consistent starting position after overcoming a protracted injury absence.

This is mostly because of Marc Casado’s ascent, who has performed admirably under manager Hansi Flick’s tutelage.

SPORT has stated that Flick finds it difficult to manage the situation with de Jong as a result. Helping the Dutchman get back to his best was one of his major priorities when he took over as Barcelona’s coach last summer.

De Jong returned to action after more than 150 days out, but he hasn’t persuaded Flick that he should be a consistent starter.

There are unmistakable indications that de Jong is not giving his best performance, even though opinions on his performances can vary.

Flick, who saw de Jong’s potential and the value he could add to the team, had yet maintained his faith in him. But now that he has more choices, things might be shifting.

It appears that Barcelona’s midfield is overcrowded. Fermin Lopez and Gavi’s comeback has given the club new vitality, especially when it comes to pressing up the field.

Casado has become a vital member of the team and is a superb metronome at the holding position. Dani Olmo’s skills in the attacking midfield are still untapped, but Pedri has returned to his best and is more inventive than ever.

Pablo Torre has also established himself, surpassing de Jong in the hierarchy during the game against Brest.

There is fierce rivalry for playing time because there are seven midfielders fighting for just three spots. Complicating things further, the atmosphere at home is becoming more and more irritated with de Jong’s performances.

Whether Barcelona should keep depending on de Jong for crucial minutes or if it’s time for him to stand back and play a more supporting role is the topic at hand.

The next phase of this continuing story may begin with the forthcoming game versus Las Palmas.