Dutchman Phillip Cocu is one of the most important foreign players to don the FC Barcelona shirt. A key figure in the team at the end of the 1990s and beginning of the 2000s, Cocu was the complete midfielder, clever with an ability to get into the box, he left his mark due to his performances and his leadership. He made 292 appearances for the Club, more than other legends from the Netherlands such as Ronald Koeman and Patrick Kluivert.
Against Atlético Madrid in the Champions, Frenkie de Jong equalled that record of appearances by a Dutchman so we took the chance to speak to Phillip Cocu to find out his feelings about the landmark figure, his compatriot's role in the current Barça team and the blaugranes' current form.
What do you think about Frenkie equalling your record of appearances for Barça?
Frenkie is a great player and a great guy and I love how he plays. He has the perfect profile for Barça, and besides he has character and personality. He is very professional and modest. There always comes a moment when someone equals your record and Frenkie deserves it. Also, he has extended his contract for another two years so he will go way beyond my record.
How do you feel about being the Dutchman with most appearances for Barça?
It's a source of incredible pride because there have been many great Dutch players at Barça. Being the one with most appearances is something really special for me. Representing a club like Barça is never something every day, it's a privilege. I felt that as a player and I still do now.
What do you think about Frenkie's career and how do you rate him as a player?
For me he is a very impressive player. Last season he got injured at the start of the campaign and even though he kept on playing, he wasn't at his best. In the last few months he has been back to his best and you can see his value out on the field. He is a player who reads the game really well, he know how to keep the ball and dictate the pace. Perhaps he is not a big goalscorer but his influence on the team is key, above all when you need to dominate games.
What similarities and differences do you have with Frenkie?
I think we are different player. I used to get into the box more and look to score, be closer to the goal. Frenkie, in contrast, stands out more for his ability to control the tempo of a game and for being the first midfielder to receive the ball and create the extra man. We have different styles but in a team you need that.
What do you think about Barça's season and Hansi's time as coach?
For me it's a great season. Hansi's style, a lot of pressing, intensity and directness, is very attractive. In the Champions League they had bad luck because in the latter stages the difference between the teams is minimal. Beyond that, I like the fact that youngsters are getting a chance from the youth teams, alongside big signings. That's Barça. They have been able to bring together that identity with a direct, intense style. I love watching the team play. Barça is Barça.