Frenkie de Jong Reflects on Playing with Lionel Messi

Frenkie de Jong has praised Lionel Messi as 'the perfect footballer' after playing alongside him at Barcelona.

De Jong grew up watching Barcelona dominate under Pep Guardiola's leadership and always admired Messi's skills.

He enjoyed watching Barcelona matches and followed players from that time, including Messi.

De Jong insists his passion for football remains unchanged, despite the immense pressure, and he still enjoys playing the game.

He feels pleasure in playing football and can immerse himself in it completely.

De Jong discussed his ultimate ambition of lifting the World Cup trophy and believes the Netherlands have a team that should aim to win it.

The Netherlands will prepare to face Tunisia in their final group-stage clash, hoping to secure the top spot in Group F.

De Jong stated he has imagined winning the World Cup and it's a goal for him and the team.

The Netherlands currently sit top of Group F with four points after drawing 2-2 against Japan and beating Sweden 5-1.

The team will focus on their upcoming match against Tunisia and aim to maintain their impressive form in the World Cup.

Messi and Argentina will take on Austria and then Jordan, looking to maintain their dominant form in Group J.

De Jong's admiration for Messi is clear, and he feels it's special to have played alongside him.

He thinks the final tournaments with the national team, especially the World Cups, are the most standout thing for a football player.

The goal is simply to win them, and that's why players participate.

De Jong believes in the Netherlands' capabilities and thinks they have a good team.

He enjoys playing football and feels it's still his hobby, even though it's his job.