Frenkie de Jong calls for a radical change, he doesn't have the level, the best is waiting on the bench.

Since Pedri is injured, Frenkie de Jong has become Barça's leader. He has the mission to control the tempo of the match, help with ball distribution, and link up with the strikers. So far, he is performing very well in that role.

Accompanied by Marc Casadó, De Jong has taken on the leadership of the midfield with authority in the absence of the Canary Islander. His ability to read the game and provide attacking fluidity makes him a key piece. Barça needs that kind of performance to keep their project going.

The latent fragility of Barça's midfield

Despite Frenkie de Jong's good level, Barça's midfield is struggling without Pedri. Casadó isn't up to the task, so De Jong is forced to cover too much ground, which creates a lot of space. That situation compromises defensive stability and effectiveness in regaining possession.

Casadó was the perfect complement for Pedri and De Jong last season, but this year he is disappointing. He doesn't reach the minimum level required to play regularly for Barça according to the coach and the squad. It's only a matter of time before he loses his starting spot.

Marc Bernal's emergence as a real alternative

In this context, Marc Bernal appears as the best alternative for Barça's holding midfielder. His profile fits the system better, brings freshness, and offers more physical presence than Casadó. De Jong is eager for Bernal to start getting regular minutes to play alongside him.

Frenkie de Jong demands a radical change because he knows the team can't continue with that level of uncertainty in the midfield. If Barça wants to compete at the top, they need solidity and consistency in that key area. De Jong wants to see teammates who allow him to show his best version without having to take on excessive responsibility.

Barça depends on Frenkie de Jong more than ever to set the tone in midfield. His performance is high, but the environment doesn't help and Casadó's shortcomings threaten the team's cohesion. With Marc Bernal as a possible replacement and De Jong pushing for change, Barça faces a crossroads that could define their season.