No one can argue against the point that injuries have had a significant impact on FC Barcelona this season. The Catalans have seen as many as five important starters out with injuries simultaneously, and it is only now that Xavi is getting some respite from this problem as a majority of these players have returned to action.
Frenkie’s impact on Barcelona in numbers
However, Frenkie de Jong is still not available, and as it happens, he is one of the most important players for Barcelona this season. His importance for the team has been confirmed by numbers compiled by Mundo Deportivo.
The Spanish publication notes that with Frenkie de Jong on the pitch, FC Barcelona had gone on to win six of their matches this season while drawing only one, the opening La Liga match against Getafe. However, since his injury, the Catalans have lost two matches and drew another two.
Entire team’s performance drops off without the Dutchman
Similarly, there is also a drop-off in the performance of the whole team without De Jong’s presence on the pitch. With him pulling the strings on the pitch, Xavi’s men scored 21 goals in the first seven games while conceding six goals themselves.
On the other hand, since Frenkie has been absent due to injury, the team has been able to score only 11 goals in nine matches, with the scoring rate dropping by more than 50%. The team has also conceded eight goals in Frenkie’s absence.
These figures show how important a role Frenkie de Jong has on the entire team. Barcelona also realize his importance, and are confident that his return will help Xavi get the team back to its best.
These numbers also hold great importance for Frenkie himself, as they show how important he has become for a Barcelona team that was trying to push him to join Manchester United only a few months ago.
