Former Barcelona midfielder Ronald de Boer believes Sergi Busquets is working against the game of Frenkie de Jong.

De Jong produced the winner against Alaves on Sunday.

De Boer told El Pais: “He (Frenkie de Jong) is still a great player for Barça. But right now, when I see him move on the pitch, he gives me the impression that he does it very shyly. He doesn’t show the energy that he normally has. He seems a bit lost. He doesn’t look happy.

“The continuous change of coaches could have affected him. In addition to the fact that Busquets continues to be a starter in midfield in his best position.

“It’s a role he could play very well because he’s capable of defending very well. He’s fast, tall to win aerial duels, he covers a lot of space…

“Busquets is an incredible player but he needs a lot of protection. If he has to cover a lot of the field he is in trouble. This affects the whole team and also De Jong. I would rate him a six. He is the future. Busquets is finishing his career. I am a lover of Busquets. But he has his years and sometimes clubs and coaches cling too long to players who must step aside.

“The future is De Jong, Gavi, Pedri, Nico… With those they have an incredible midfield!”

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