The relationship between Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick and midfielder Frenkie de Jong became tense towards the end of last season.
Spanish journalist Gerard Romero revealed that Flick has completely lost confidence in de Jong. The crisis peaked during the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Atlético Madrid, which saw Barcelona eliminated.
Flick wanted de Jong to start after the player received medical clearance, but the Dutch international refused, unwilling to risk his health. This disagreement marked a turning point in their relationship.
De Jong is currently nursing a serious knee injury sustained while representing the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup. He is considering surgery but is delaying a decision pending how his future will unfold.
His status in the team remains uncertain: the strained relationship with Flick combined with the injury complicates his place in the squad. In the near future, this situation may affect his contract and prospects at Barcelona.
De Jong is in search of options as his career hangs in the balance, with both his relationship with the coaching staff and his recovery from injury being decisive factors.
