These videos are fantastic. Such a breath of fresh air versus the clickbait, low effort, content most of us are used to seeing. I’d love to see a video on Darwin Nunez. The prices being touted seem absurd in comparison to someone like Nkunku with a much more proven track record.
de Jong is such a" niche player"... not defensively aware and industrious enough to be a CDM... not really creative and impactful enough to be a box-to-box... but somehow, if u put him in the right system with the right players around him, he can bring such a unique dynamic to the game, absolutely beautiful to watch...
Please help us grow and don't miss out on the latest content by subscribing to the channel.. you can also find additional content by checking out the following... WEBSITE ► www.pythagorasinboots.com INSTAGRAM ► @pythaginboots TWITTER ► twitter.com/pythaginboots
I noticed that my videos get blocked from certain territories - if you are affected by it and cannot see the video, drop a comment - I will set up a Patreon for the video to be uploaded on that platform too. Please also let me know what you think is De Jong's best position and if he should stay at Barca or go to United...
After Modric, he is my second favourite player in football atm and I genuinely believe that he is the heir to Modric’s throne. FDJ can control games and his breaking of the lines with his gliding dribbling is the closest thing to Modric. Nice job for pointing out that FDJ is very much a caged bird under Xavi at Barcelona. They have him playing in this sort of free 8 role, when as he said himself, he is most comfortable when collecting from the centre-backs. His attacking movements are very good and I’m surprised he doesn’t get more goals because he has those Ramdeuter qualities too. But then again, he can’t be everything at once, can he?!
Well he kind of tries to be everything which is one of the problems he faces at Barcelona - Xavi is the antithesis of that type of midfielder. He is someone who believes in specialisms, and a zonal approach.
Well, it sure doesn't look like it at the moment. Personally, I think he's quite overrated, but a good player nonetheless. Heir to Modric' throne? Modric is almost 37 years old and still blows this kid out of the water at the moment. He'll have his good games, but that one's a bit wild.
@@Niele160 FWIW I don't think he will surpass Modric, just that his tactical profile is most similar to Modric out of the regista's he could be compared to. Furthermore it is worth noting Modric was 27 when he joined Madrid and was a nobody in terms of GOAT status at that stage of his career.
@@Niele160 when Modric was FDJ’s age he was still at Spurs and had not even played a UCL knockout game…I bet big on Modric back in 2010, everybody laughed at me and now he is the confirmed GOAT of midfielders. I am also betting big on FDJ although I fear that the dysfunction at United may limit his growth lol 🤣
@@YMY_1999 Anyone who watched Modric in England knew he was world class. There was a reason why Sir Alex wanted him for several years prior but Levy refused to sell him to United.
Good video. I expect De Jong to be a top signing mainly because Ten Hag knows his game to a Tee so he'll use him well, but we definitely need a defensive midfielder that can cover his flaws. Please do videos on Sangare from PSV, Cheick Doucoure from Lens and Kouadio Kone from Gladbach, three very promising and up-coming midfielders.
The thing about de jong is he good at everything but dont excel at something that make him can play in your typical midfield role, this versatility is what make him special. He can be used at made an option and overload the oppossition at every stage of the game
Very great video, but I think u underestimated De jong's versatility and adaptability. Obviously he has his own style of play but I believe he's among the most versatile players in the world and he's proved it several times. Under Koeman when Messi was playing as false 9 and was leaving the box empty, Fdj used to cover that area &sometimes be the most offensive player of Barça, almost like a false 9 him too. And he's had some games in central defence too and he was good at that position. I think he can adapt to every role in midfield:CDM, DM,OM RM....
I liken De Jong to Kovacic. Not defensively disciplined enough to play a single pivot, brilliant at playing out of the back and beating the press etc. I think he was seriously mis-profiled with the Busquets comparisons.
Agreed, only difference I would say is De Jong picks it up even deeper than Kovacic and has better composure in front of goal. His range of passing is superior too. Kovacic is a more physical animal though so he can cover ground faster, play at a higher tempo etc.
Cruyff on Guardiola at la Masia: "could not defend" "had no strength" "couldn't do anything in the air". i think Xavi's real failure is he didn't follow rule #1 "Build your team around the most creative player". Instead, he has tried to teach Frenkie by putting him in a place where he can learn discipline and a new part of the pitch - this is not stupid! it just hasn't worked! or Frenkie has failed to learn the right sided midfield in this strict system, you can say it both ways and not be wrong. he also has Pedri and must build around both talents. but he hasn't! i'd love to see F d Jong set loose in his natural place:an orchestral CDM role with full support, Pedri going slightly forward and dropping from one side to the other to get the ball and support Frenkie's build up play: where the team is built around what that midfield naturally does, the same way Rijkaard and Guardiola built a team around what Messi needed. in Messi's case it was the ball dropped smooth to his feet in the attacking third with support running ahead of him, simple but Messi is once in a century. in Frenkie's case, it's a passive defensive three, and a midfield who can play one touch probing attacking football where he can collect from the keeper and look forward to Pedri and rush to one-twos where the space is productive and probing. this video is brilliant commentary, agree with all of it. he has glaring weaknesses, lack of discipline, but beautiful ideas, and a heavenly touch and killer instinct. i would criticize the heading stats insofar as, like most good CDMs he will not contest a header he knows he can't win, i wouldn't even criticize his low pass numbers or accuracy at all, it's just the type of incisive player he is, he plays some speculative balls that would make Guardiola tear his hair out, but this is not Messi's Barca from 15 years ago. you either use one of the most creative midfielders of his generation or you fail as a coach, and on this Xavi i think it's fair to criticize him. the system is not the thing. the thing you can build around the most incisive and creative players is the system. that is totaalvoetbal.
De jong is not played at his position in barca, he was Uefa midfielder of the season at just 21 yrs age at ajax. Want his analysis next season too under ETH😉🔥
@@84jordie sorry but Pogba was tried at every position at utd, he just wasn't consistent enough. But I'm 100% sure he'll be lit with Juve but at utd he was shit, same goes with lingard who'll be fire if he goes to west ham but never with utd
@@nabeelahmad_ nah he just wasn't played in his position. how come you will know he plays well for Juventus and not for Utd if it was Pogba himself that was bad? He will be excellent for France in WC again I feel, and for Juventus. Shows that it's the system, not the player. If you said it was Balotelli, then maybe you can blame the player because he is shit no matter for club or country bar a few games per season.
Please put Iniesta’s output stats in there as well. You’ll be surprised that they aren’t that high while he was playing in such a dominant team. Iniesta controlled the game and made attacks happen. Frenkie does the same thing (at least for Ajax and NL). He shouldn’t be judged on goals and assists
He's a system player and needs to be central to the teams play especially the build up phase. He's good enough to play as a cb so he has no issues defensively in the right setup. Kamara as stated in the video would've been a decent partner on paper but i think he ideally needs someone more combative and athletic like Bissouma or Bennacer. One of his greatest qualities is he disrupts the opposing teams shape through carrying the ball and encouraging them to press. As a result that frees up space for the attackers and prevents them from being double and tripled up.
He needs to be the system. CB is easier than CDM in some respects because he can just sit rather than have to look over his shoulder. Less distractions on the ball too. Bissouma is not a CDM and Bennacer is another destroyer type who vacates his position. Agree that an athletic CDM might be a better fit i.e. a Declan Rice?
@@PythagorasinBoots You're right about Bissouma and Bennacer but Bissouma especially has the ability to sit and hold his position. Might be tougher for Bennacer because his whole game is about carrying the ball and chasing opponents. Rice would be the perfect partner but we cant afford him. Realistically Bissouma and potentially Kessie seeing how incompetent Barca are could be great partners for FDJ.
He's definitely not a DM ... Great progressor of the ball and controller of the game... let's hope that ten Hag gets him to develop his talent to the highest level...
You are very underrated . There are so many things that I agree with. Good to see an analysis TH-camr with actual understanding with depth. Keep up the good work mate. You deserve more likes. Hoping to see your analysis on some players who I personally can’t watch.
Based on this assesment, United should pay no more than 10 million pound.. there is no way you can watch this assessment and deem de Jong a top midfilder..
A CDM, a destroyer like Tchuoameni and De jong could be a mean trio woth that said if he goes to United he will struggle, cmon you think Fred and mctominay are top partners ?!? 😂
I’m a Fred fan. United fans seem to crap on him sometimes, because he’s not a great playmaker. I think de jong would fit in well next to him, because Fred isn’t a dribbler. he’s an excellent pass and move player, but can’t win one on one’s in the midfield due to his size. Just my opinion tho
I agree but you would still need one more mid to complete that combination. Fred De Jong and Bruno lacks balance as a trio. I do not believe Fred and Bruno can co exist in the same midfield unless it’s a diamond.
What do you think about the way xavi currently uses de jong? Who would be the perfect partner for de jong as a cdm? Kimmich, zubimendi and amrabat are rumoured
Definitely more than enough data to solidify that he is not a cdm and United NEEDS to purchase a quality cdm like Lisandro, Kante, or Rice to go along with him, especially with the loss of Matic or their defense will be obliterated this season.
If Frenkie DeJong doesn't want to come to our Club then bring the best Alternative & preferred choice Ryan Gravenberch & Nicola Barella would be excellent additions to our Club then we can seriously challenge for league & champions league Next season!
Thanks bud - a lot of analysis content out there doesn't want to hurt anyone's feelings in addition to seeing it from a coaches perspective (coaches voice excluded - great channel), which kind of inspired our team to create our own content.
@@PythagorasinBoots Agreed! And honestly, I'm kind of sick of TH-cam compilations cherry-picking clips. What I love about your work is how you talk about the strengths and weaknesses especially.
Nop Riquelme was a game changer creative outlet player who's worth giving the freedom and van gaal didn't give him that meanwhile frankie isn't that he can't change the game on his own or is a creative outlet to giving him the freedom, wouldn't make any sense
Very strange to say he needs to cover less ground and focus more energy on being a goal threat, when earlier his weakness in defending is due to not covering grounds. If he were to be a regista then direct goal threats definitely isn't his primary function and role is as a midfielder. Having checked him out a few times at Ajax and closer during EURO 2020 (but less with Barca), the comparison with Iniesta is quite accurate - he carries in very similar fashion under pressure and can spread play around or break lines himself. But I think he will not really work well with Fred (not a true DM) or Bruno (total opposite mentality with ball usage). If I have to choose, I'd rather keep Fred as he'd work better with VDB instead of Bruno.
The point was more that because he’s spreading his energy too much in different areas - the stats will be weak as a reflection of that. Very hard to be in all three thirds and then expect to see amazing stats - but having said that, he is having weaker stats in all these areas compared to other midfielders who also operate in all three thirds like Verratti or Modric. So he does need to up his game as well as be placed in a more appropriate tactical environment at club level.
@@PythagorasinBoots I don't disagree with the weaker stats, I just think he should improve his defensive parts more than being a direct goal threat since he naturally works around a deeper area more. As as United fan I've seen a lot of laziness from Pogba at United, he can't do the same if he were to play in the PL. Probably attacking wise, he does need to improve his pre-assists and xA. Just not so much on being a direct goal threat.
Fantastic analysis, do you think United need a specialist CDM to play alongside De Jong to offer him the free role which suits him better. PL is the most physically demanding league so don't think it'll be a good idea to play him as the holding midfielder.
Frankie is not a CDM... he is attacking mid... who carries ball from deep and distribute to forwards... i still don't understand why everyone thinks he is CDM... United need a top CDM....
@@truthseeker683 You're absolutely right. Frankie is a CM and to bring the best out of him a CDM will be needed or else he'll remain restricted just like Barca. Don't know why United chasing Eriksen instead of a CDM.
Amazing analysis bro... Your every video is perfect.. Btw Can make a video about Bruno Guimarães, i think he is a great midfielder.. His can be one of best the mid in next Premier League
To know the amount of their 'weakness' that are due to Xavi, could be nice to have same analysis bu with the neetherlands also in the numbers, not only tactical! But Very Good work, Pythagoras!
Very reminiscent of Modric style, a beautiful player that needs to fit into the proper dynamic to really shine. Even though he is not a traditional Barca midfielder, he is usually the best player on the pitch and always gets a 8 or 9 out of 10 performance wise. If you have someone you can't force off the ball, and almost always picks the right weighted pass, does his defensive work adequately and scores the odd goal / assist i don't see why he wouldn't be an attribute to any team. It is really up to the coach to brew up that magical potion where all these characters synergize without thinking. To summerize, Frenkie needs top players around him that are like minded. The Dutch national team has too great a mix of levels and they often dont pick the right runs and are really affecting Frenkie's game.
Impressive analysis, i have to say. Qua talent one of the best if not the best midfielder righ nowt, but only when you give him the freedom and Frenkie should put the bar higher for himself. He not only can run the show put also has the the talent to decide the show.
Yes, as a Dutchman I agree. Even though he is already showing flair, he needs to show it more to get everything out of his talent. More dribling, beating defenders and more shooting on the goal. At the same time, if he does that too much and it fails he will loose his fragile position under xavi. I hope xavi will get the best out of him.
Different level to Neves. He’s more nimble, more skilful and better defensively. He can control tempo of a game better. Neves is a Cm version of Ruben Dias - quite immobile but tbf Kroos has the same issue and never let it bother him but that’s because his iq was off the charts - Neves is intelligent but not to that level so I overall prefer a FDJ. Positionally, both quite similar although FDJ is more dynamic. Neves a better ball striker. Neves less of a free spirit so could be a better tactical fit for certain big teams where manager is more demanding in terms of discipline.
@@PythagorasinBoots How about Caqueret? I would love to see your analysis of him. It seems he would be a better fit overall for Utd than many of the options mentioned. Thoughts?
Frenkie De Jong is such a polarizing player. He's someone who needs very specific conditions to operate at his maximum, and with the amount of talent in Barcelona's midfield, it seems hard to justify sacrificing the likes of Pedri or Gavi just so de Jong can thrive. But on the other hand, if these conditions are met, de Jong can bring your team into incredible heights. I think it would be interesting to see how de Jong would operate with the likes of Franck Kessie, who is a really physical and dominant midfielder. Either way, as a hardcore de Jong fanboy, I hope he finds success and is able to live up to at least most of what his potential suggests, whether it's at Barcelona or not.
If say how to make good use of him in Barca,I suggest they should not put too much energy in the box,they should wait for chance before entering the box,and give through pass to auba, or fati , or gavi.Because I believe with less space near the box, de jong’s ability is so much decreased. His pass, dribble is always too predictable,unlike pedri,Messi,iniesta,xavi.So more space for him before entering the box maybe more comfortable for him,when they are controlling the game.
Just watched two of your video's and you now have a new subscriber. These are really well done and really like the style of the video's. Why can't other channels work out that we don't need/want to see the person making the video, we really only want to see video relevant video clips of the player in question with good graphics to highlight your talking points. Great stuff
Nice video. Did not convince me that he is not busquets replacement. Him vacating the deep midfield position for a dribble is not a bad thing in a position based side who creates a ton of opportunities such as Barca. His press resistance reminds me a lot of the great dribbling moves busquets uses. Maybe his defensive awareness needs some improvement, but he has the physicality and tenacity to get where he needs to be. There is no player like busquets, so to say he is the replacement isn't far. But I believe he can be extremely successful if given the ability to make the position his own, to get out of the busquets comparisons. I do believe there is no player like de jong.
If you look at the way Busquets dribbles it is more in tight spaces and he doesn’t really gallop forwards on long dribbles, it is usually short sharp and efficient to just escape the press and then release the pass. Furthermore you wouldn’t see Busquets in the final third or out of position as often in his prime. He’s much stronger in the air and just an all round better defensive player. De Jong can only play there if you use more destroyer type mids around him to create an AC Milan type midfield under Carlo - that isn’t going to happen if you want to develop Gavi and Pedri.
@@PythagorasinBoots I agree, with busquets his dribbles aren't even really like dribbles, more like small press-resisting actions. Interesting you mention destroyer mids and AC Milan, what are your thoughts on Franck Kessie possibly playing alongside FDJ?
@Pythagoras in Boots what makes you think Gavi beside Frenkie would not make a solid defensive midfield It just requires them to be disciplined, when one makes an attacking run, the other drops behind. Which is the typical Barcelona style anyway
Good video but I don't think the defensive workrate is so poor to be mentionned as a weakness. His best role would be regista as you say but he can also improve as a box to box.
It’s a weakness in terms of he can’t be a pure CDM. As a registered yes - it’s not a weakness but you have to understand players strengths and weaknesses in a holistic sense so that you can move them to the right position and ideal playing responsibility.
@@PythagorasinBoots see like this ok but for me he works much more than Pirlo for example. I am not even sure I consider Busquets to have a better defensive work rate than De Jong. Anyway, as always, very good video and work!
@@pierregeopardi1481 Busquets is an old man now and he still gets through more defensive actions and is positionally better. He might work more than a Pirlo but Pirlo was not a CDM, he was a DLP. The whole point of highlighting his lack of defensive work rate is to illustrate he could never be an orthodox CDM like some claim i.e. he could replace Busquets.
@@PythagorasinBoots De Jong was really good when he had to play 3 at the back and central centre-back under koeman. For Ajax he was centre-back for a period. On the fact to replace Busquets I am pretty sure he can be better than him on every aspect, even defensive, For the positionnal defensive aspect it would be just a matter of weeks and dozens of game in my opinion. So yes I am one of the guy that claim he must replace busquets but everybody can have an opinion :)
I said this in one of your other videos but I'd like to see a video of konate he was liverpools best player in ucl final and finally got called up for france
I haven’t seen him a lot with Ajax, but everytime I see him with Barca he’s not impressive at all, Rakitic was way better, and that’s without comparing De Jong to the goats of the game.
Rakitic was more industrious and more mature with his style of play. He was also battle hardened by playing in La Liga. A more versatile character and underrated technically. For me De Jong has a higher ceiling but a lower base level - he's either going to smash it, or be a flop relative to his ability. I also do not think he is disciplined enough to meet the expectations of Barca midfielders. We shall see.. might be others who disagree with me.
One of my favourite midfielders to watch at the moment. He has an incredible feel for the game. Question is, if he doesn't go to United and join forces again with Ten Hag, what other team/manager would get the best out of him?
I think a team like Real Madrid to replace Modric - don’t kill me Barcelona fans. Possibly at Liverpool if Thiago hadn’t got there first. He needs a team that dominates ball but not in a systematic way with licence to express and elements of transitional focus.
The team that let's Frenkie be Frenkie. He was always a difficult player to coach because he didn't listen and follows his own instincts, but coaches such as Ten Hag, Koeman, Van Gaal and even De Boer, know that his talents will bring the team at a higher level, and did give him that freedom.
@@ryananchondo2506 no mate. Xavi pep they play the same way with zones given to their players to play in. Frenkie needs the freedom. It will be the same scenario under pep like how he is under xavi right now
@@ryananchondo2506 He wouldn't last five minutes under Guardiola. I think the Utd board are doing exactly what they have done for the last ten years, "look,look, we're buying one of the best players in the World, how can you criticise us?"
With all his skills, he needs to be used more like Wesley Sneijder was used. he has a good shot, good passing and decent defensive work and his dribble is sensational.
Not at all similar to Sneijder. Sneijder is a creative attacking midfielder, whereas de Jong excels at breaking the opponents pressure. Although people outside of the NL fail to notice that that is his greatest value.
Think in terms of his passes per 90 you have to take in to consideration the system and his role at barca, he’s played far higher up than he was at ajax, when he joins united he’ll be played in the 6 and I personally believe he’s much better there. The same with modric as it’s kroos who’s the one setting the tempo at RM.
This analyse is so so bad. Dude gets it wrong in almost every subject. You’re just as his last 3 managers at Barcelona using/judging him the incorrect way. EtH will show how to use him properly. Just as van Gaal already is doing for Oranje.
I am confused by your analysis. How can you be comparing a player with "Makalele" at the same time, comparing the same player with the "Zidane" In the name of numbers? Please choose one. I am comforted though that you acknowledged that he's way too under-utilized at Barca. You have suggested ManU for him understandably so - maybe for a reunion with Ten Hag and possibly a rediscovery. I feel his best move right now (Nov. 2022) is to fill the hole in Arsenal - replacing Martin Ordegaad who to me, is way too overated. And lastly, his best position even by your analysis is a no.10 never a deep-lying MF or Anchor. HE'S A ZIDANE not a Xavi or Pirlo or Busquet. Thank you.
He is good player but paying so much for a midfield is just so outrageous considering barca financial debt. Barca fans but he is just not worth that much.
That's what I've been saying, FDJ is not what United need - and he isn't worth almost 85 million euros. Goal threat just isn't there, distribution is weak and poor defensive awareness will open United up.
They tried forcing Pogba into this fetch and carry role, which he failed dismally. De Jong is the box to box guy, he will spray passes, and dictate the game while lying deep. That's how he watches the opponent's game unfold, and tries to nullify it - something Pogba can't do with his lack of temperament and tactical discipline. Matic came closest to fulfilling the role, but he didn't have the craft and guile to match his vision
These videos are fantastic. Such a breath of fresh air versus the clickbait, low effort, content most of us are used to seeing. I’d love to see a video on Darwin Nunez. The prices being touted seem absurd in comparison to someone like Nkunku with a much more proven track record.
Nunez should be out by the end of June - am keen to get a better insight into him and see if he lives up to the hype.
exactly
So amazing!
de Jong is such a" niche player"... not defensively aware and industrious enough to be a CDM... not really creative and impactful enough to be a box-to-box... but somehow, if u put him in the right system with the right players around him, he can bring such a unique dynamic to the game, absolutely beautiful to watch...
Sounds like someone familiar who just left us..
Beautifully put!
He's the kinda player you build your team around cause if you play him well hé Will be the best on the field.
@@Minifliek Agreed!
Sounds like Pogba all over again.
Please help us grow and don't miss out on the latest content by subscribing to the channel.. you can also find additional content by checking out the following...
WEBSITE ► www.pythagorasinboots.com
INSTAGRAM ► @pythaginboots
TWITTER ► twitter.com/pythaginboots
I noticed that my videos get blocked from certain territories - if you are affected by it and cannot see the video, drop a comment - I will set up a Patreon for the video to be uploaded on that platform too. Please also let me know what you think is De Jong's best position and if he should stay at Barca or go to United...
After Modric, he is my second favourite player in football atm and I genuinely believe that he is the heir to Modric’s throne. FDJ can control games and his breaking of the lines with his gliding dribbling is the closest thing to Modric.
Nice job for pointing out that FDJ is very much a caged bird under Xavi at Barcelona. They have him playing in this sort of free 8 role, when as he said himself, he is most comfortable when collecting from the centre-backs.
His attacking movements are very good and I’m surprised he doesn’t get more goals because he has those Ramdeuter qualities too. But then again, he can’t be everything at once, can he?!
Well he kind of tries to be everything which is one of the problems he faces at Barcelona - Xavi is the antithesis of that type of midfielder. He is someone who believes in specialisms, and a zonal approach.
Well, it sure doesn't look like it at the moment. Personally, I think he's quite overrated, but a good player nonetheless. Heir to Modric' throne? Modric is almost 37 years old and still blows this kid out of the water at the moment. He'll have his good games, but that one's a bit wild.
@@Niele160 FWIW I don't think he will surpass Modric, just that his tactical profile is most similar to Modric out of the regista's he could be compared to. Furthermore it is worth noting Modric was 27 when he joined Madrid and was a nobody in terms of GOAT status at that stage of his career.
@@Niele160 when Modric was FDJ’s age he was still at Spurs and had not even played a UCL knockout game…I bet big on Modric back in 2010, everybody laughed at me and now he is the confirmed GOAT of midfielders. I am also betting big on FDJ although I fear that the dysfunction at United may limit his growth lol 🤣
@@YMY_1999 Anyone who watched Modric in England knew he was world class. There was a reason why Sir Alex wanted him for several years prior but Levy refused to sell him to United.
This is why vdb played so well then. They were extremely smart. None of the players on utd have a brain when it comes to passing the ball.
Can't argue with that.
Good video. I expect De Jong to be a top signing mainly because Ten Hag knows his game to a Tee so he'll use him well, but we definitely need a defensive midfielder that can cover his flaws. Please do videos on Sangare from PSV, Cheick Doucoure from Lens and Kouadio Kone from Gladbach, three very promising and up-coming midfielders.
Thanks for the suggestions, will have a look at them!
Ten hag is going to use de jong and van de beek in double pivot with bruno as a ten
@@ordinarysam775 A soft midfield.
He won’t downgrade bro
@@ordinarysam775 no CDM in that mid
The thing about de jong is he good at everything but dont excel at something that make him can play in your typical midfield role, this versatility is what make him special. He can be used at made an option and overload the oppossition at every stage of the game
Agreed that’s why it takes a clever manager to be able to use him properly
Keep making these. This is def one of the best player analysis series on YT already. Keep working and improving. \m/
wonder if he would suit arsenal, a De Jong - Rice - Ødegaard midfield could be world class.
That time is done.
You think de jong could be good under flick?
Very great video, but I think u underestimated De jong's versatility and adaptability. Obviously he has his own style of play but I believe he's among the most versatile players in the world and he's proved it several times. Under Koeman when Messi was playing as false 9 and was leaving the box empty, Fdj used to cover that area &sometimes be the most offensive player of Barça, almost like a false 9 him too. And he's had some games in central defence too and he was good at that position. I think he can adapt to every role in midfield:CDM, DM,OM RM....
He did also play as a sweeper/CB for ten Haag back when he was at Ajax. I think Pythagoras undervalues FDJ’s versatility within the system.
I think u guys overrated him
Team de jong is the best 🇳🇱🇳🇱🇳🇱🇳🇱🇳🇱🇳🇱🇳🇱
👇
Lots of analysis videos only talk about how great the player is, but not the weaknesses which is what I like about this account.
Cheers Otto appreciate it!
I liken De Jong to Kovacic. Not defensively disciplined enough to play a single pivot, brilliant at playing out of the back and beating the press etc. I think he was seriously mis-profiled with the Busquets comparisons.
Agreed, only difference I would say is De Jong picks it up even deeper than Kovacic and has better composure in front of goal. His range of passing is superior too. Kovacic is a more physical animal though so he can cover ground faster, play at a higher tempo etc.
@@PythagorasinBoots do you think they can play together in a pivot because FDJ is being heavily linked to Chelsea
Wow i see Fred up there with the others
This is a very well made video 📸
Cheers Loki ❤️👍
Cruyff on Guardiola at la Masia: "could not defend" "had no strength" "couldn't do anything in the air". i think Xavi's real failure is he didn't follow rule #1 "Build your team around the most creative player". Instead, he has tried to teach Frenkie by putting him in a place where he can learn discipline and a new part of the pitch - this is not stupid! it just hasn't worked! or Frenkie has failed to learn the right sided midfield in this strict system, you can say it both ways and not be wrong. he also has Pedri and must build around both talents. but he hasn't!
i'd love to see F d Jong set loose in his natural place:an orchestral CDM role with full support, Pedri going slightly forward and dropping from one side to the other to get the ball and support Frenkie's build up play: where the team is built around what that midfield naturally does, the same way Rijkaard and Guardiola built a team around what Messi needed. in Messi's case it was the ball dropped smooth to his feet in the attacking third with support running ahead of him, simple but Messi is once in a century. in Frenkie's case, it's a passive defensive three, and a midfield who can play one touch probing attacking football where he can collect from the keeper and look forward to Pedri and rush to one-twos where the space is productive and probing.
this video is brilliant commentary, agree with all of it. he has glaring weaknesses, lack of discipline, but beautiful ideas, and a heavenly touch and killer instinct. i would criticize the heading stats insofar as, like most good CDMs he will not contest a header he knows he can't win, i wouldn't even criticize his low pass numbers or accuracy at all, it's just the type of incisive player he is, he plays some speculative balls that would make Guardiola tear his hair out, but this is not Messi's Barca from 15 years ago. you either use one of the most creative midfielders of his generation or you fail as a coach, and on this Xavi i think it's fair to criticize him. the system is not the thing. the thing you can build around the most incisive and creative players is the system. that is totaalvoetbal.
De jong is not played at his position in barca, he was Uefa midfielder of the season at just 21 yrs age at ajax. Want his analysis next season too under ETH😉🔥
Let’s hope he gets to ETH first before I promise anything lol!
@@PythagorasinBoots 🤞🏻❤️
Same thing with Pogba was not played in his preffered postion at Man United.
@@84jordie sorry but Pogba was tried at every position at utd, he just wasn't consistent enough. But I'm 100% sure he'll be lit with Juve but at utd he was shit, same goes with lingard who'll be fire if he goes to west ham but never with utd
@@nabeelahmad_ nah he just wasn't played in his position. how come you will know he plays well for Juventus and not for Utd if it was Pogba himself that was bad?
He will be excellent for France in WC again I feel, and for Juventus. Shows that it's the system, not the player. If you said it was Balotelli, then maybe you can blame the player because he is shit no matter for club or country bar a few games per season.
Please put Iniesta’s output stats in there as well. You’ll be surprised that they aren’t that high while he was playing in such a dominant team.
Iniesta controlled the game and made attacks happen. Frenkie does the same thing (at least for Ajax and NL). He shouldn’t be judged on goals and assists
He's a system player and needs to be central to the teams play especially the build up phase. He's good enough to play as a cb so he has no issues defensively in the right setup.
Kamara as stated in the video would've been a decent partner on paper but i think he ideally needs someone more combative and athletic like Bissouma or Bennacer.
One of his greatest qualities is he disrupts the opposing teams shape through carrying the ball and encouraging them to press. As a result that frees up space for the attackers and prevents them from being double and tripled up.
He needs to be the system. CB is easier than CDM in some respects because he can just sit rather than have to look over his shoulder. Less distractions on the ball too.
Bissouma is not a CDM and Bennacer is another destroyer type who vacates his position. Agree that an athletic CDM might be a better fit i.e. a Declan Rice?
@@PythagorasinBoots You're right about Bissouma and Bennacer but Bissouma especially has the ability to sit and hold his position. Might be tougher for Bennacer because his whole game is about carrying the ball and chasing opponents.
Rice would be the perfect partner but we cant afford him. Realistically Bissouma and potentially Kessie seeing how incompetent Barca are could be great partners for FDJ.
Depends on the opponent
He's definitely not a DM ... Great progressor of the ball and controller of the game... let's hope that ten Hag gets him to develop his talent to the highest level...
I can't believe this channel only have 5k subs
Great work bro
Keep.going
Appreciate the love ❤️👍
Your forum is really helpful and sophisticated.
Can you kindly do one on both Kounde and Dembele?
Kounde is the next video. Dembele I will do but not sure when, should be before season starts!
So basically, he's young, supremely talented and needs a coach to help him blossom. Cool.
Pretty much but he has Stockholm syndrome
@@PythagorasinBoots you didn't just say that😭
klopp is the master at that then ;)
You are very underrated . There are so many things that I agree with. Good to see an analysis TH-camr with actual understanding with depth. Keep up the good work mate. You deserve more likes. Hoping to see your analysis on some players who I personally can’t watch.
Appreciate it brother ❤️
Based on this assesment, United should pay no more than 10 million pound.. there is no way you can watch this assessment and deem de Jong a top midfilder..
A CDM, a destroyer like Tchuoameni and De jong could be a mean trio woth that said if he goes to United he will struggle, cmon you think Fred and mctominay are top partners ?!? 😂
McFred will make De Jong look like the Aldi version of Kalvin Phillips :P
@@PythagorasinBoots 😂
I’m a Fred fan. United fans seem to crap on him sometimes, because he’s not a great playmaker. I think de jong would fit in well next to him, because Fred isn’t a dribbler. he’s an excellent pass and move player, but can’t win one on one’s in the midfield due to his size. Just my opinion tho
I agree but you would still need one more mid to complete that combination. Fred De Jong and Bruno lacks balance as a trio. I do not believe Fred and Bruno can co exist in the same midfield unless it’s a diamond.
@@PythagorasinBoots I agree with that. De Jong, bruno, and a Declan rice type would be a fun balanced midfield.
Amazing videos . Pedri analysis soon?
Yes, aiming for start of season. Focusing on transfer targets at the moment.
Great video but you have definitely over-rated him. You're giving him a rating seemingly based on his potential rather than where he is currently at.
Welcome to Liverpool De Jong!
What do you think about the way xavi currently uses de jong? Who would be the perfect partner for de jong as a cdm? Kimmich, zubimendi and amrabat are rumoured
Fuck dude. Epic analysis.
Cheers les!
Definitely more than enough data to solidify that he is not a cdm and United NEEDS to purchase a quality cdm like Lisandro, Kante, or Rice to go along with him, especially with the loss of Matic or their defense will be obliterated this season.
I'd like a video on Rodrygo
If Frenkie DeJong doesn't want to come to our Club then bring the best Alternative & preferred choice Ryan Gravenberch & Nicola Barella would be excellent additions to our Club then we can seriously challenge for league & champions league Next season!
This is beautiful. Honest and true
This guy has the talent to be up there with Modric Zidane and Iniesta. He needs to leave Barca
Long term... can united put him and mainoo with a proper young cdm in united mid 3? With no bruno
Absolutely love your channel, disappointed it's taking me this long to discover it because your content is exactly what I've been searching for!
Thanks bud - a lot of analysis content out there doesn't want to hurt anyone's feelings in addition to seeing it from a coaches perspective (coaches voice excluded - great channel), which kind of inspired our team to create our own content.
@@PythagorasinBoots Agreed! And honestly, I'm kind of sick of TH-cam compilations cherry-picking clips. What I love about your work is how you talk about the strengths and weaknesses especially.
Reminds me of how Riquelme was restricted at Barcelona
Nop Riquelme was a game changer creative outlet player who's worth giving the freedom and van gaal didn't give him that meanwhile frankie isn't that he can't change the game on his own or is a creative outlet to giving him the freedom, wouldn't make any sense
Very strange to say he needs to cover less ground and focus more energy on being a goal threat, when earlier his weakness in defending is due to not covering grounds. If he were to be a regista then direct goal threats definitely isn't his primary function and role is as a midfielder. Having checked him out a few times at Ajax and closer during EURO 2020 (but less with Barca), the comparison with Iniesta is quite accurate - he carries in very similar fashion under pressure and can spread play around or break lines himself.
But I think he will not really work well with Fred (not a true DM) or Bruno (total opposite mentality with ball usage). If I have to choose, I'd rather keep Fred as he'd work better with VDB instead of Bruno.
The point was more that because he’s spreading his energy too much in different areas - the stats will be weak as a reflection of that. Very hard to be in all three thirds and then expect to see amazing stats - but having said that, he is having weaker stats in all these areas compared to other midfielders who also operate in all three thirds like Verratti or Modric. So he does need to up his game as well as be placed in a more appropriate tactical environment at club level.
@@PythagorasinBoots I don't disagree with the weaker stats, I just think he should improve his defensive parts more than being a direct goal threat since he naturally works around a deeper area more. As as United fan I've seen a lot of laziness from Pogba at United, he can't do the same if he were to play in the PL.
Probably attacking wise, he does need to improve his pre-assists and xA. Just not so much on being a direct goal threat.
You should do Pedri
Will do. Before season starts, pre world cup.
Fantastic analysis, do you think United need a specialist CDM to play alongside De Jong to offer him the free role which suits him better. PL is the most physically demanding league so don't think it'll be a good idea to play him as the holding midfielder.
Yes I do or at least two top class box to box midfielders around him to do the battling for him.
Frankie is not a CDM... he is attacking mid... who carries ball from deep and distribute to forwards... i still don't understand why everyone thinks he is CDM... United need a top CDM....
@@truthseeker683 You're absolutely right. Frankie is a CM and to bring the best out of him a CDM will be needed or else he'll remain restricted just like Barca. Don't know why United chasing Eriksen instead of a CDM.
Amazing analysis bro... Your every video is perfect.. Btw Can make a video about Bruno Guimarães, i think he is a great midfielder.. His can be one of best the mid in next Premier League
Sure bud, will try to get it done before the season starts.
@@PythagorasinBoots tnx..keep up ur good work bro 🥰
To know the amount of their 'weakness' that are due to Xavi, could be nice to have same analysis bu with the neetherlands also in the numbers, not only tactical! But Very Good work, Pythagoras!
That is already covered in the video if you go to the tactical breakdown section.
@@PythagorasinBoots yess but i mean the data, the statistics. This video is fantastic, I hope Barça don't sell him...
Barca don't need him and Xavi don't suit him.... so better he go to a manager who knows how to use him....
My god, he would kill it at Liverpool
Great videos, Gavi soon?
Yes will add to the list. Kounde next.
I think xavi finally figured it out with de jong!
no 90s dance music and just his best bits. great video. just what I was looking for
First time viwer , impressive analysis, top notch .
Thank you Kumar appreciate it ❤️👍
Analyse HIM in the Dutch national team der we use him the correct we and is he amazing
HOW HAVE I ONLY JUST FOUND THIS CHANNEL! THIS IS AMAZING!
Very reminiscent of Modric style, a beautiful player that needs to fit into the proper dynamic to really shine. Even though he is not a traditional Barca midfielder, he is usually the best player on the pitch and always gets a 8 or 9 out of 10 performance wise. If you have someone you can't force off the ball, and almost always picks the right weighted pass, does his defensive work adequately and scores the odd goal / assist i don't see why he wouldn't be an attribute to any team. It is really up to the coach to brew up that magical potion where all these characters synergize without thinking. To summerize, Frenkie needs top players around him that are like minded. The Dutch national team has too great a mix of levels and they often dont pick the right runs and are really affecting Frenkie's game.
Excellent analysis
Thanks Ziyaad - appreciate the kind words!
Do a video on pedri or gavi. Maybe modric or bernardo silva or kdb as well
His best period in Barca was when Koeman used him as a libero between two CBs.
long live the libero
Impressive analysis, i have to say. Qua talent one of the best if not the best midfielder righ nowt, but only when you give him the freedom and Frenkie should put the bar higher for himself. He not only can run the show put also has the the talent to decide the show.
Thanks Peter - agree with all that. Let me know if you have any suggestions for future videos.
Yes, as a Dutchman I agree. Even though he is already showing flair, he needs to show it more to get everything out of his talent. More dribling, beating defenders and more shooting on the goal. At the same time, if he does that too much and it fails he will loose his fragile position under xavi. I hope xavi will get the best out of him.
Compare him with ruben neves.
Different level to Neves. He’s more nimble, more skilful and better defensively. He can control tempo of a game better. Neves is a Cm version of Ruben Dias - quite immobile but tbf Kroos has the same issue and never let it bother him but that’s because his iq was off the charts - Neves is intelligent but not to that level so I overall prefer a FDJ. Positionally, both quite similar although FDJ is more dynamic. Neves a better ball striker. Neves less of a free spirit so could be a better tactical fit for certain big teams where manager is more demanding in terms of discipline.
@@PythagorasinBoots could FDJ and Neves work well together as double pivots ? just like FDJ and Schone in Ajax days
@@PythagorasinBoots How about Caqueret? I would love to see your analysis of him. It seems he would be a better fit overall for Utd than many of the options mentioned. Thoughts?
Frenkie De Jong is such a polarizing player. He's someone who needs very specific conditions to operate at his maximum, and with the amount of talent in Barcelona's midfield, it seems hard to justify sacrificing the likes of Pedri or Gavi just so de Jong can thrive. But on the other hand, if these conditions are met, de Jong can bring your team into incredible heights. I think it would be interesting to see how de Jong would operate with the likes of Franck Kessie, who is a really physical and dominant midfielder. Either way, as a hardcore de Jong fanboy, I hope he finds success and is able to live up to at least most of what his potential suggests, whether it's at Barcelona or not.
If you can totally dominate the match, it's worth sacrificing another player imo.
You should do one for Ruben Neves
Added to list
If say how to make good use of him in Barca,I suggest they should not put too much energy in the box,they should wait for chance before entering the box,and give through pass to auba, or fati , or gavi.Because I believe with less space near the box, de jong’s ability is so much decreased. His pass, dribble is always too predictable,unlike pedri,Messi,iniesta,xavi.So more space for him before entering the box maybe more comfortable for him,when they are controlling the game.
De Jong is similar to Toni Kroos and should be play in similar position. He need a DM like Fabinho or Casemiro to do the dirty work.
Agreed but he is more box to box than Toni imo. Not quite a specialist as Kroos.
I need the Declan rice video mate!
It’s coming!
Just watched two of your video's and you now have a new subscriber.
These are really well done and really like the style of the video's.
Why can't other channels work out that we don't need/want to see the person making the video, we really only want to see video relevant video clips of the player in question with good graphics to highlight your talking points.
Great stuff
Thanks Tolu appreciate it!
Can you do ‘How good was Michael Laudrup?’ Pls👏🏾🇳🇬!!
I’ll add that to the list 👍
Great and very unique content great work please make episode on pedri
Thank you Hassan - will do soon 👍
Nice video. Did not convince me that he is not busquets replacement. Him vacating the deep midfield position for a dribble is not a bad thing in a position based side who creates a ton of opportunities such as Barca. His press resistance reminds me a lot of the great dribbling moves busquets uses. Maybe his defensive awareness needs some improvement, but he has the physicality and tenacity to get where he needs to be. There is no player like busquets, so to say he is the replacement isn't far. But I believe he can be extremely successful if given the ability to make the position his own, to get out of the busquets comparisons. I do believe there is no player like de jong.
If you look at the way Busquets dribbles it is more in tight spaces and he doesn’t really gallop forwards on long dribbles, it is usually short sharp and efficient to just escape the press and then release the pass. Furthermore you wouldn’t see Busquets in the final third or out of position as often in his prime. He’s much stronger in the air and just an all round better defensive player.
De Jong can only play there if you use more destroyer type mids around him to create an AC Milan type midfield under Carlo - that isn’t going to happen if you want to develop Gavi and Pedri.
@@PythagorasinBoots I agree, with busquets his dribbles aren't even really like dribbles, more like small press-resisting actions. Interesting you mention destroyer mids and AC Milan, what are your thoughts on Franck Kessie possibly playing alongside FDJ?
@Pythagoras in Boots what makes you think Gavi beside Frenkie would not make a solid defensive midfield
It just requires them to be disciplined, when one makes an attacking run, the other drops behind.
Which is the typical Barcelona style anyway
Good video but I don't think the defensive workrate is so poor to be mentionned as a weakness. His best role would be regista as you say but he can also improve as a box to box.
It’s a weakness in terms of he can’t be a pure CDM. As a registered yes - it’s not a weakness but you have to understand players strengths and weaknesses in a holistic sense so that you can move them to the right position and ideal playing responsibility.
Regista *
@@PythagorasinBoots see like this ok but for me he works much more than Pirlo for example. I am not even sure I consider Busquets to have a better defensive work rate than De Jong.
Anyway, as always, very good video and work!
@@pierregeopardi1481 Busquets is an old man now and he still gets through more defensive actions and is positionally better. He might work more than a Pirlo but Pirlo was not a CDM, he was a DLP.
The whole point of highlighting his lack of defensive work rate is to illustrate he could never be an orthodox CDM like some claim i.e. he could replace Busquets.
@@PythagorasinBoots De Jong was really good when he had to play 3 at the back and central centre-back under koeman.
For Ajax he was centre-back for a period.
On the fact to replace Busquets I am pretty sure he can be better than him on every aspect, even defensive,
For the positionnal defensive aspect it would be just a matter of weeks and dozens of game in my opinion.
So yes I am one of the guy that claim he must replace busquets but everybody can have an opinion :)
man, so underrated channel. U deserve billion followers
Thanks Talos
I said this in one of your other videos but I'd like to see a video of konate he was liverpools best player in ucl final and finally got called up for france
Don't worry I haven't forgotten.
Pogba part 2 if we are not careful, great analysis
Luckily we have ETH who understands him better than anyone.
Fred is above De jong in most areas?? How
He’s an all action midfielder so gets high numbers - doesn’t mean he’s a better player. Stats can be deceiving without context.
Where did you get all those stat pages from? They are awesome and I would like to look more into them.
Wyscout 👍
I haven’t seen him a lot with Ajax, but everytime I see him with Barca he’s not impressive at all, Rakitic was way better, and that’s without comparing De Jong to the goats of the game.
Rakitic was more industrious and more mature with his style of play. He was also battle hardened by playing in La Liga. A more versatile character and underrated technically. For me De Jong has a higher ceiling but a lower base level - he's either going to smash it, or be a flop relative to his ability. I also do not think he is disciplined enough to meet the expectations of Barca midfielders. We shall see.. might be others who disagree with me.
@@PythagorasinBoots I'm interested to see what he does in United if he goes, great video btw
One of my favourite midfielders to watch at the moment. He has an incredible feel for the game. Question is, if he doesn't go to United and join forces again with Ten Hag, what other team/manager would get the best out of him?
I think a team like Real Madrid to replace Modric - don’t kill me Barcelona fans. Possibly at Liverpool if Thiago hadn’t got there first. He needs a team that dominates ball but not in a systematic way with licence to express and elements of transitional focus.
The team that let's Frenkie be Frenkie. He was always a difficult player to coach because he didn't listen and follows his own instincts, but coaches such as Ten Hag, Koeman, Van Gaal and even De Boer, know that his talents will bring the team at a higher level, and did give him that freedom.
he’d be deadly in a side like Man City
@@ryananchondo2506 no mate. Xavi pep they play the same way with zones given to their players to play in. Frenkie needs the freedom. It will be the same scenario under pep like how he is under xavi right now
@@ryananchondo2506 He wouldn't last five minutes under Guardiola.
I think the Utd board are doing exactly what they have done for the last ten years, "look,look, we're buying one of the best players in the World, how can you criticise us?"
With all his skills, he needs to be used more like Wesley Sneijder was used.
he has a good shot, good passing and decent defensive work and his dribble is sensational.
Very misunderstood players who are capable of greatness
Not at all similar to Sneijder. Sneijder is a creative attacking midfielder, whereas de Jong excels at breaking the opponents pressure. Although people outside of the NL fail to notice that that is his greatest value.
Fdj to city
Nice work!
Can you please do a video analysis on Rice too?
That will come soon!
What a top video this was a brilliant watch quality video👊👊
Thanks Ali-Hamza 👍
Welcome to Arsenal
Think in terms of his passes per 90 you have to take in to consideration the system and his role at barca, he’s played far higher up than he was at ajax, when he joins united he’ll be played in the 6 and I personally believe he’s much better there.
The same with modric as it’s kroos who’s the one setting the tempo at RM.
absolut world trash
This analyse is so so bad. Dude gets it wrong in almost every subject. You’re just as his last 3 managers at Barcelona using/judging him the incorrect way. EtH will show how to use him properly. Just as van Gaal already is doing for Oranje.
do a pedri one brother
I am confused by your analysis. How can you be comparing a player with "Makalele" at the same time, comparing the same player with the "Zidane" In the name of numbers? Please choose one.
I am comforted though that you acknowledged that he's way too under-utilized at Barca. You have suggested ManU for him understandably so - maybe for a reunion with Ten Hag and possibly a rediscovery. I feel his best move right now (Nov. 2022) is to fill the hole in Arsenal - replacing Martin Ordegaad who to me, is way too overated.
And lastly, his best position even by your analysis is a no.10 never a deep-lying MF or Anchor. HE'S A ZIDANE not a Xavi or Pirlo or Busquet.
Thank you.
Please make a video on Ibrahim Sangaré
Will add to the list Gunjan!
He is good player but paying so much for a midfield is just so outrageous considering barca financial debt. Barca fans but he is just not worth that much.
86 holy crap. Get De Jong into United under ten Haag rn. The only one who could utilise De Jong
This season really feels like make or break time for him.
I think Man U would be good for him. He'd have more creative freedom and license to play his own game, and the team would be relying on him
That's what I've been saying, FDJ is not what United need - and he isn't worth almost 85 million euros. Goal threat just isn't there, distribution is weak and poor defensive awareness will open United up.
I just traded this guy for $50m to Man City, and the transfer went thru right before we played them in the League 😭
I hope he will be reunited at United with ten Hag.
Me too Michel!
United are so frustrating. Spending all summer trying to buy this one player when we desperately need a DM & two other midfielders.
They tried forcing Pogba into this fetch and carry role, which he failed dismally. De Jong is the box to box guy, he will spray passes, and dictate the game while lying deep. That's how he watches the opponent's game unfold, and tries to nullify it - something Pogba can't do with his lack of temperament and tactical discipline. Matic came closest to fulfilling the role, but he didn't have the craft and guile to match his vision
This channel is very underrated cuz you guys
Don't like the videos like every time
this is the most realistic and grounded video ive seen of De Jong in the internet. Subscribed!
Sugar coating n hype jobbing is something I'll leave to to pro wrestling promoters.
3:01 cmon bro ur the one who made the vid🤣😭,great vid nonetheless bro keep it up🤟
He’d be an upgrade on Xhaka but needs to be bulk a bit for the midfield battles in the EPL
overpaid
Could you do one on James Maddison at Leicester. Utd are looking at Tielemens but I think Maddison is a better option.
He is not going to man utd
A man can dream.