Barcelona told me to knock out Real Madrid - Ajax prodigy reveals
What's the story?
Ajax wonder kid, Frenkie de Jong, revealed that his future club FC Barcelona urged him to knock out bitter rivals Real Madrid during transfer negotiations with the club.
In case you didn't know...
Real Madrid were sent crashing out from the UEFA Champions League round of 16 stage as they were defeated 4-1 (5-3 on aggregate) by Ajax over two legs. After their recent two defeats against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey and LaLiga respectively, their shocking defeat against Ajax saw Los Blancos enduring their 4th consecutive home loss this season.
Frenkie de Jong secured his move to Barcelona in the winter transfer window and will join the Catalan giants this summer.
Known for his maturity and vision with the ball, the 21-year-old Dutch prodigy depicted his calibre against Real Madrid last night and justified his €75 million price tag. Against the likes of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, he held his ground and dominated the Real Madrid midfield.
This defeat practically ends Los Blancos' miserable season as they will be left without any trophies barring a miracle in LaLiga. Real Madrid are knocked out from the Copa del Rey and from the Champions League and sit 3rd on the LaLiga table, 12 points behind league leaders Barcelona.
The heart of the matter
The Dutch wonder kid revealed that Barcelona had urged him to knock Real Madrid out of the Champions League before they met in the Santiago Bernabeu for last night's clash.
"I spoke to them when I signed the contract and they told me to try to knock out Real Madrid, as that would be great for Barca too," De Jong told Dutch newspaper, De Telegraaf, as quoted by ESPN.
It is evident now that the future Barcelona player kept his promise by playing a huge role in the defeat of Los Blancos.
What's next?
Ajax will focus on the Dutch league where they face Fortuna Sittard and Zwolle next, whereas Real Madrid will face Real Valladolid before facing Celta Vigo in LaLiga.
Also See : Durand Cup, Durand Cup Schedule, Calcutta Football League