‘He could become a Xavi or an Iniesta’ – Marc Overmars on Frenkie de Jong
What's the story?
Former Arsenal and Barcelona star, Marc Overmars, has made a huge claim regarding the Catalan side's latest transfer signing, stating that the Ajax Prodigy can go on to become the heir to legends like Xavi and Andres Iniesta.
In case you didn't know...
Arguably, the biggest news in the January transfer window was that FC Barcelona has splashed €75 million to secure the services of the Dutch prodigy, Frenkie De Jong.
The 21-year-old wonder kid garnered wide interest from the top clubs in Europe due to his potential and Barcelona were desperate to secure the signings of the Dutch talent. De Jong will arrive at the Camp Nou in the summer from Ajax.
Ajax academy is well renowned for producing some of all time greats of almost every generation. Marc Overmars is currently the sporting director of Ajax and is familiar with De Jong's potential and calibre.
Moreover, Overmars surely knows a thing or two about playing in Barcelona as he spent four seasons with the club after his move from Arsenal in 2000.
The heart of the matter
Former Barcelona player, Marc Overmars, claimed that a player like Frenkie De Jong could become a Xavi or an Andres Iniesta if he fulfils his potential.
When asked about De Jong's big money move in an interview with VTV Uruguay as quoted by Spanish media outlet Sport: "It's important for Barça to have players like De Jong. With his talent, at his age, he could become a Xavi or an Iniesta.
"[Barcelona] have to bring through their own players and mix them with good players from elsewhere. De Jong's not Messi, there's only one [Messi]. But he's a player that fits in really well at Barça. I'm excited to see him there next season."
What's next?
After a good showing against Real Madrid in the first leg of Champions League Round of 16, Ajax will turn their focus on Eredivisie before facing Los Blancos again on Santiago Bernabeu on 6th March.
On the other hand, Barcelona faces a tough test as they face Lyon in the Champions League and Sevilla in the La Liga before facing Real Madrid twice.