Ahead of Barcelona's el Clásico against Real Madrid, Frenkie de Jong opened up about his situation at Barcelona. Speaking to Ziggo Sport, the midfielder discussed the competition for places, his ambitions and the criticism he has faced recently.
Competition for places
De Jong is back in Barcelona's matchday squad. GOAL said De Jong is fighting to win back his place in Hansi Flick's team after a lengthy injury lay-off.
De Jong said: "The competition is very strong, but that's what makes it so interesting for me."
De Jong said: "I think I belong there too, and I feel I can play there. Who I play with doesn't matter that much to me."
Return from injury
GOAL said De Jong suffered a troublesome knee injury while playing for the Netherlands at the World Cup and spent months on the sidelines. GOAL said De Jong returned to the squad against Real Betis and Paris Saint-Germain, but Flick decided not to bring him on.
De Jong said: "I think I've shown in training that I'm ready. Hopefully I'll get some minutes on Sunday."
Champions League ambition
Winning the Champions League remains a major ambition for De Jong at Barcelona.
De Jong said: "That's something I still have to do in my career. It's a very big goal, a dream, a desire."
Criticism from supporters
GOAL said De Jong's lengthy absence has drawn criticism from Barcelona supporters, who saw him play for the Netherlands at the World Cup. GOAL said competition in Barcelona's midfield is particularly fierce this season.
De Jong said: "It's always been the case that most of the criticism of me, or most of the noise, comes when I'm not there, when I can't play football. That happened again this time, and I understand very well where it comes from. I completely understand the supporters: they see me playing for the national team and not for the team they support."