Barcelona Crush Dortmund as Pedri Champions De Jong’s Future
FC Barcelona took a giant step toward the UEFA Champions League semi-finals with a dominant 4–0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the quarter-finals. The Catalan giants were at their very best at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, dismantling their German opponents with precision and flair, in what was arguably their most complete performance of the season.
Central to the emphatic win was midfield maestro Pedri, who continues to shine under Hansi Flick. The 21-year-old, having recovered fully from past injury woes, is now operating at his brilliant best—controlling the tempo, dictating play, and linking up perfectly with his midfield partner Frenkie de Jong.
Pedri’s resurgence has been closely tied to the presence of De Jong, forming a midfield duo that is becoming the heartbeat of Flick’s Barcelona.
Their chemistry on the pitch has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike, with their movements, passing, and tactical understanding creating a rhythm Barcelona has thrived on in recent weeks.
So strong is their partnership that Pedri has reportedly urged the club to prioritize De Jong’s future. According to sources close to the team, the Spanish international has told management that the Dutch midfielder should always start alongside him, even calling De Jong “a genius” and an irreplaceable figure in the squad.
De Jong, whose contract runs until 2026, remains a vital piece in Flick’s tactical puzzle. Known for his composure, vision, and ability to break opposition lines, the 26-year-old has bounced back from injury to deliver crucial performances. Despite his importance, his high salary remains a topic of concern for the financially-troubled club.
Barcelona is now weighing a contract extension that would restructure De Jong’s wages while securing his long-term future. While transfer speculation continues, Pedri’s public backing of his teammate sends a clear message: keeping De Jong is essential to the club’s ambitions.
With one foot firmly in the semi-finals and the midfield duo firing on all cylinders, Barcelona fans can start to dream again. For Pedri, the vision is clear—his future success is intertwined with De Jong’s presence in the Blaugrana midfield.
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