Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong has hailed Newcastle United supporters as “real football fans”.
On Thursday, Barcelona secured a 2-1 win over the Magpies in the Champions League at St James’ Park.
After the match, the Netherlands international spoke to Ziggo Sport and explained just how much he’d enjoyed playing against Newcastle United at their home stadium and Voetbal Primeur have relayed his comments.
The 28-year-old midfielder said he had an idea of what to expect at St James’ Park from compatriots and is thrilled to have experienced it.
“I’ve heard a lot about it from the guys in the Dutch national team who play in the Premier League. The atmosphere was fantastic. They are real football fans. They react to football moments and show a lot of emotion. That was great to see,” he said.
Marcus Rashford, who joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United in the summer window, starred for the visitors on his return to England, scoring a second-half brace to help the Catalan club beat Newcastle.
Although Barcelona had better possession, Newcastle had one more shot on target.
De Jong picked up an injury during the international break but was fit enough to start against Eddie Howe’s side. The former Ajax man said he was a bit “tired towards the end of the match”
He also explained why he was pleased with the way Eddie Howe’s side approached the European clash.
“You knew beforehand that it was going to be a good match. They want to press high, and we always want to play football and attack. They don’t hide either. I think it was really fun to watch,” De Jong explained.
“I think we did quite well overall. If we had played it out a bit better around the opposition box, we might have created more big chances. We won 1-2, and we’re happy with that.”
