Who Plays When He Works and Works When He Plays: The Frenkie de Jong Approach

For me, football has never been a job. It’s a passion, a love affair. That’s why the phrase “Who Plays When He Works And Works When He Plays” resonates so deeply with me. It perfectly captures the essence of my approach to the beautiful game.

The Joy of the Game: Why “Playing” Matters

Football at its core is about joy, about the sheer thrill of moving the ball, creating chances, and celebrating victories as a team. When I step onto the pitch, whether it’s Camp Nou or representing the Oranje, I carry this feeling with me. It’s this joy that allows me to express myself freely, to take risks, and to try things that others might not.

But “playing” isn’t just about flair or individual brilliance. It’s about finding that rhythm, that flow within the team. It’s about understanding your teammates’ movements, anticipating their runs, and knowing instinctively where the ball needs to go.

Hard Work: The Foundation of Success

While the joy of the game is paramount, it’s crucial to remember that talent alone isn’t enough. Behind every elegant touch, every perfectly weighted pass, lies hours of tireless dedication and hard work.

“Working” in football encompasses many aspects. It’s the countless hours spent honing my technique, improving my fitness, and studying the game. It’s the discipline to stay focused, even when fatigue sets in. And it’s the unwavering commitment to constantly push my limits and become a better version of myself.

Finding the Balance: When Work Becomes Play

The beauty of this philosophy, “who plays when he works and works when he plays,” is that it highlights the symbiotic relationship between hard work and enjoyment. When you genuinely love what you do, the lines between work and play become blurred.

Training sessions become opportunities not just to improve but to experiment and have fun with the ball at my feet. Matches become a canvas on which to paint, to express the creativity and vision that have been nurtured through dedication and discipline.

This seamless blend of work and play is what I strive for every time I step onto the pitch. It’s what allows me to perform at my best and to contribute to the success of my team.

Inspiring the Next Generation

I believe this approach to football is universal. Whether you’re a young aspiring player finding your feet or a seasoned professional, embracing the joy of the game while putting in the necessary hard work is essential.

So, find what you love about football. Let that passion fuel your dedication and inspire you to work tirelessly. Remember, the greatest joy often comes from pushing yourself beyond your perceived limits and discovering what you’re truly capable of achieving.

And who knows, maybe one day, you’ll find yourself playing when you work and working when you play.