Veteran Barcelona midfielder rebuilds relationship with Hansi Flick after captaincy controversy

Veteran Barcelona midfielder rebuilds relationship with Hansi Flick after captaincy controversy Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has reportedly renewed his appreciation for Frenkie de Jong following a significant improvement in the midfielder’s attitude, training commitment and contribution to the team. According to Spanish newspaper SPORT , the relationship between the pair has recovered after a difficult summer in which disagreements over De Jong’s ankle injury management resulted in the Dutchman losing Barcelona’s captaincy.  Flick was particularly unhappy with how the midfielder handled his recovery, creating tension between the two ahead of the new campaign. However, De Jong has since made considerable efforts to rebuild the relationship.  In fact, his increased commitment to the team, combined with his willingness to adapt to different positions , has helped restore his importance within Flick’s plans. What happened between Flick and De Jong? The disagreement centred on De Jong’s handling of an ankle problem that had affected him during the previous season.  Hansi Flick has restored his faith in Frenkie de Jong. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) The midfielder wanted to recover in time to represent the Netherlands at the World Cup, but after his country’s elimination, he chose to go on holiday rather than immediately report to Barcelona’s medical department. That decision frustrated Flick , who wanted the midfielder to prioritise his recovery under the club’s supervision.  The German coach also insisted that De Jong travel with the squad during pre-season despite being unavailable for selection because of his injury. A further disagreement emerged over the recommended treatment. Barcelona’s medical staff favoured surgery, whereas De Jong preferred a conservative approach that would allow him to recover without undergoing an operation. The situation eventually contributed to Flick removing the captain’s armband from the Dutch international, marking a difficult period in their relationship. De Jong’s commitment has restored Flick’s confidence Frenkie de Jong faced a difficult period earlier in the summer. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) The turning point came after a conversation between the midfielder and his manager, during which De Jong promised to improve his recovery process and return in stronger condition. His subsequent actions appear to have made a significant difference, as he committed to double training sessions, attended regular medical check-ups and continued visiting the training ground even on scheduled days off. Flick has appreciated the midfielder’s efforts, with his improved professionalism helping rebuild the trust that had been damaged during the summer. Furthermore, his performances have also strengthened his position. De Jong demonstrated his tactical flexibility by operating as a centre-back against Alaves before featuring as a full-back against Atletico Madrid.  As a result of these developments, Flick has restored faith in the Dutch international, something that appeared quite difficult to achieve a few months ago.