Barcelona coach Xavi calls Luuk de Jong ‘privilege’

FC Barcelona coach Xavi has complimented his striker Luuk de Jong prior to the Europa League match with Eintracht Frankfurt on his good game and professional attitude. “It is a privilege for me to have him in the team,” said the Spaniard about the Dutchman, who gave Barcelona 3 points against Levante on Sunday by heading the winning 3-2 in stoppage time.

According to Xavi, De Jong has “improved a lot” since the arrival of the new trainer in November. The 31-year-old former PSV player almost always starts as a substitute, but as a substitute has already been important a few times for the number 2 in Spain.

“I really appreciate Luuk,” Xavi continued. “He is a professional and an example for me as a coach, the coaching staff and the players. I can’t complain. He trains 100 percent and gives everything.”

Barcelona will play the return in the quarterfinals against Eintracht in their own stadium on Thursday, after the 1-1 draw in Germany last week. Striker Memphis Depay is also available after an injury.