FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said Frenkie de Jong remains an important player for the club despite rumors claiming the Dutch internationl could leave Catalonia this summer.

Over the last two years, there was no transfer window in which Frenkie de Jong’s future was not subject to rumors especially sending him away from Barcelona.

However, the 26-year old never left the Blaugranas despite injury setbacks and he still has the confidence of both the board and the coach.

“For me, de Jong is a key player. Nothing has changed, he’s really crucial for me”, Xavi said in his Valencia pre-match press conference.

“He’s been unlucky with many injuries but his level has always been excellent, I consider Frenkie as crucial player”, he added.

De Jong’s contract with Barcelona will end in two years (2026) and negotiations for a potential extension are yet to start.