Frenkie de Jong: It's 'a shame' Lionel Messi didn't reunite with Barcelona

Catalan boss Xavi has been outspoken about his admiration for Messi and wanted to see the Argentine back at Barca ahead of next season, but he opted to go to MLS outfit Inter Miami instead.

"I think every team would like to have Lionel there, because he makes a difference anytime, anywhere," De Jong told Telegraaf.

"It's a shame he didn't come to Barcelona.

"I would have liked him there, would have found his return top-notch. We'll now see who joins and who leaves."

De Jong endured a difficult start to his time at Barcelona, but grew in stature through the 2022/23 campaign and is now one of the club's most influential players.

Asked about his future at the Spanish giants, De Jong added: "I feel good at Barcelona. If all goes well I will stay there. You can't say anything 100% but I guess next season I will play for Barcelona."