Pedri, Gavi and Dani Olmo con.demn team star to expulsion from Barcelona

Barcelona secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Brest in the Champions League, showcasing a performance that underlined the team’s growing cohesion under coach Hansi Flick. The midfield was a particular highlight, with Pedri delivering an exceptional performance, demonstrating his tactical intelligence and dominance. Dani Olmo also impressed, seamlessly integrating into the team with creativity and scoring a goal, further solidifying his role in the squad. In the second half, Gavi made a notable impact as a substitute, reinforcing Flick’s trust in the young midfielder.

However, not all players are thriving under the German coach. According to the Spanish newspaper *El Nacional*, Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona appears increasingly uncertain. The Dutch midfielder, who played only five minutes against Brest, was met with boos from fans, reflecting their dissatisfaction with his recent performances. Once a pivotal player, De Jong has struggled to maintain his influence in a midfield now dominated by younger, more dynamic talents like Pedri, Gavi, and the in-form Dani Olmo. Newcomer Marc Casado has also impressed, further reducing De Jong’s prominence in Flick’s plans.

Flick has highlighted the intense internal competition within the squad, and De Jong has not met the high standards required to reclaim a central role. While Pedri controls the tempo, Gavi brings energy and aggression, and Olmo adds creativity and goal-scoring ability, De Jong’s contributions have dwindled, relegating him to a substitute role.

The financial aspect also complicates De Jong’s situation. As one of the highest earners in the squad, his salary has become a strain on Barcelona’s budget. The club’s management is now seriously considering his departure, either in the January transfer window or at the end of the season, to alleviate financial pressures and make room for a replacement that aligns with the team’s evolving style and future objectives.

With a more dynamic and cohesive midfield emerging under Flick’s leadership, De Jong’s role in the team seems increasingly redundant. His departure, once an improbable scenario, now appears to be a realistic outcome as Barcelona looks to move forward with a system that no longer accommodates the Dutch midfielder.