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Barcelona coach Xavi has insisted there was no doubt in his mind that Frenkie de Jong wanted to remain at Barcelona last summer.
Manchester United hired Erik ten Hag last summer and his first wish was for the club to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona.
United pushed all summer and were able to agree a fee for De Jong but convincing the former Ajax man to move was the big sticking point.
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De Jong never wanted to leave Barcelona
There were complications regarding deferred wages owed to De Jong by Barcelona and even in a situation where both clubs were able to find a solution, the player himself was adamant about his desire to remain in Spain.
As Barcelona and Manchester United prepare to meet in a Europa League knockout round first leg on Thursday night, Xavi has been reflecting on a summer-long transfer saga.
“De Jong was very clear with me. He wanted to stay with us and there was no doubt,” Xavi said.
“He is our player and I am very happy and satisfied with his performance and leadership. He is in a great moment, like the whole team. I think he is having a good time well on the field, which is the most important thing.”
De Jong's decision to stay looks an inspired one
De Jong has excelled this season, showing his best abilities on and off the ball and taking a more obvious leadership role.
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Against Villarreal at the weekend, De Jong was again at his metronomic best and alongside Frank Kessie in midfield, dominated the game from start to finish.
The Blaugrana will be hoping he continues his sparkling form, not just against Man United but for the rest of the season.
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