Barcelona and Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong has told Voetbal International that his first season as the Catalan club was "ordinary" and that he must continue to grow as a player after a good 2020-21.
"My first year at Barça was fine, I played a lot of minutes, but in my opinion, I was just an ordinary player. This year I've been able to show myself better and played better in a lot of games, although I still think I can take steps forward and keep growing. I hope we still see a better De Jong."
De Jong also spoke about his position on the pitch, which is always a debate, both with club and country.
"I don't mind where the coach puts me," he said. "I prefer midfield but if I have to play at the back, I do. It's all a question of confidence at the end of the day. I notice that confidence from my coaches, my teammates, the media... it's a nice feeling, so I don't mind where I play, wherever the team needs me."
On Ronald Koeman continuing as Barça coach, De Jong said: "Obviously it's not necessary for me to even say how happy I am that Koeman's staying on."