Barcelona returned from the international break with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Girona, thanks to a late winner in stoppage time.
It’s been a turbulent few weeks for Hansi Flick and his squad — a 4-1 defeat to Sevilla, followed by multiple injury setbacks, left morale low. With El Clásico looming next weekend, Barcelona desperately needed a response to stay within reach of Real Madrid.
A Dramatic Match at the Camp Nou
Barcelona struck first through Pedri, finishing off a patient buildup with a composed strike. But minutes later, Girona equalised — Axel Witsel, of all people, produced a stunning overhead kick to level the match. Just when it seemed like two points were slipping away, Ronald Araújo, thrown forward as an emergency striker, rose like a seasoned No.9 and headed home the winner in stoppage time.
Frenkie De Jong — Criticism and Praise Split the Fanbase
Despite registering the match-winning assist, Frenkie de Jong found himself at the centre of heated debate among Barcelona fans online.
Some supporters were brutal:
Pudim on X:
“De Jong can’t shoot, pass, or defend. It’s like having a dummy on the pitch. What good is this useless player?”
“We actually extended Frenkie de Jong’s contract until 2029 🤣🤣🤣”
But others came to his defence, insisting he deserves far more respect:
“Hopefully this is the season where culers finally start taking Frenkie De Jong’s name with respect.”
“Nobody gets trolled more than him, yet he delivers when it matters. He ran until the last minute and gave the assist that won the match.”
