Fatigue Under Fire: De Jong and Barca Battle After Sevilla’s 4-1 Win
5 October 2025
Post-match fatigue and a bruising schedule
Barcelona were defeated 4-1 by Sevilla at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan as the Catalans endured a punishing run of games. Frenkie de Jong admitted the team did not perform well in the first half and only showed glimpses of improvement after the break.
Sevilla took the lead through Alexis Sanchez from a penalty in the 13th minute, followed by Isaac Romero in the 36th, Jose Angel Carmona in the 90th and Akur Adams in stoppage time. Barcelona's lone goal came from Marcus Rashford in the 45th plus seven, and Robert Lewandowski missed a late spot kick in the 76th.
De Jong spoke to Movistar and said that losing leaves a bitter taste and that the heavy schedule and fatigue have affected recent performances.
Coach Hans Flick continues to trust De Jong as a central piece of his plan, using him to move the ball from defense to attack and to cover space behind midfield. The extension through 2029 is presented as a sign of stability and a step toward financial recovery, with Sebastian Ledor playing a key role in finalizing the deal and Manuel Del Rio signing the initial papers while Laporta and other board members prepare to seal it within a week.
Since joining Barcelona from Ajax in 2019 for 75 million euros, De Jong has become a cornerstone of the project, known for tempo control, precise passing and calm build-up. He is viewed as a leader within the locker room and part of a new generation alongside Pedri, Gavi and Yamal, complemented by his experience and professionalism.
Flicks tactical plan relies on De Jong to help drive plays and manage space. The contract renewal to 2029 signals both sporting confidence and financial stability, allowing Barca to plan ahead with a stronger wage structure and a clearer path to long term success.
In short, Barcelona aims to stabilize both sport and finances as they pursue a revival built around a talented young core and seasoned guidance. The season ahead will test the squad, but De Jong's renewed role should help keep the project on track.
Punchline: If fatigue had a name, it would be on Barca's team sheet, because it starts every match.
Punchline 2: Barcelona's calendar is so packed that even their tiki-taka needs a snooze button.
