De Jong’s favourite move is basically the inverse of Xavi’s “pelopina”. He’ll receive the ball like he’s about to turn to his left, the more natural direction for a right-footed passer.

In July 2022 we ran a similarity test to find players with a close affinity to De Jong’s ball progression, link-up play and progressive passing skills from his best season (in 2018-19).

De Jong was not a traditional, tackling holding midfielder in his final season in his native Netherlands but was a ferocious member of the counter-press. In the difficult occasions where teams ...

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - DECEMBER 09: Frenkie de Jong of Netherlands looks on during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina at Lusail Stadium on December 9 ...

Casemiro joined United from Real Madrid in the summer window when it came apparent that de Jong wouldn’t make the move to the Premier PINC -1.5% League, but the Brazilian is a different sort of ...

Manchester United are still interested in Frenkie de Jong and Jude Bellingham, two midfielders the club have tried to sign in the past two years. Erik ten Hag is a big admirer of both players and ...

There is still a feeling of consternation at Willem II that De Jong slipped through the net so soon. He was an outstanding player, promising enough to make his first-team debut as a 17-year-old in ...

Talks between Manchester United and Barcelona over Frenkie de Jong are progressing positively on a transfer worth around €65 million guaranteed with further add-ons. It is understood those add ...

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has said he was always set on staying at the Camp Nou past this summer despite receiving interest from Manchester United and Chelsea. De Jong, 25, was at the ...

Chelsea have offered Brighton & Hove Albion in excess of £50million for left-back Marc Cucurella and are also in direct talks with Barcelona to sign midfielder Frenkie de Jong, The Athletic ...

The latest chapter in the Barcelona-Frenkie de Jong saga reportedly involves the threat of legal action and claims of extortion. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Barcelona has told de ...