Goal.com reports that De Jong has dropped one place in FC Barcelona's captaincy hierarchy. The Dutch international was third captain last season but will be fourth in the new season. The players themselves determined an important part of this order.

With Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araújo having left FC Barcelona, the club needed to restructure its captaincy system for the 2024/25 season. De Jong appeared to have a chance to move up following their departures, but ultimately that did not happen.

Flick decided that Raphinha would be first captain and Pedri vice-captain. In the previous season, ter Stegen and Araújo were Barcelona's co-captains.

Regarding the other three positions, the German coach did not want to decide alone. "I don't want to determine the other three, only these two, because they are very important," Flick explained at the press conference. The entire squad then had the opportunity to elect the remaining captains themselves.

The voting results showed that Eric García became third captain, which meant De Jong dropped one position from last season. Yamal completed the list as fifth captain, meaning the 19-year-old officially takes on a leadership role in the team.

García's selection is seen as confirmation that he has earned Flick's trust. The defender has gained considerable respect within the squad through his professionalism, discipline, and commitment to the team.

"Ultimately, the team selected these players, and for me it is a strong group with leadership qualities. I need all the players and their commitment to the team," Flick added.

FC Barcelona faces Valencia on Sunday but must continue without the injured De Jong. Flick's side can capitalize on this fixture, as their rivals Real Madrid lost to Real Betis on Friday evening and have already dropped points.

Übersetzt von KI.

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