Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has chosen a conservative treatment approach for a tear of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee. This decision, while respected by the club, has reportedly caused concern among management regarding the recovery process.
The injury occurred during the World Cup while de Jong was playing for the Netherlands. Despite experiencing pain, he continued to play after national team doctors reportedly advised him that the issue was minor and would not worsen. However, tests conducted upon his return to Barcelona confirmed the ligament tear, an injury expected to sideline him for several months.
Club Concerns and Past Precedents
Barcelona has accepted de Jong’s choice to avoid surgery for the time being, but fears persist within the club. There is apprehension that if the recovery does not proceed as anticipated, and an operation becomes necessary, his absence could extend beyond four months. This would mean a significant delay in the return of one of their key players.
The club’s unease is partly attributed to a past situation involving Ansu Fati. While de Jong’s current injury and its treatment differ from Fati’s three years ago, a common thread exists: in both instances, the club’s medical staff held a different opinion from the player’s chosen course of action. This precedent contributes to the current worry at Barcelona.
The injury news is also a setback for Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who had reportedly planned to start the campaign with de Jong, one of the team’s most experienced midfielders, available. De Jong was a crucial player for Barcelona last season, making 38 appearances across various competitions.
During his 38 appearances, he contributed significantly to the team’s play, scoring once and providing eight assists. His defensive contributions were also notable, averaging two interceptions, 2.3 tackles, 2.3 clearances, and five ball recoveries per game.
Impact on Transfer Plans and Player Relationship
Despite the loss of such an important player, Barcelona is not expected to alter its transfer plans. The club reportedly believes it possesses sufficient midfield depth to manage de Jong’s absence. Furthermore, Barcelona is moving forward with its transfer strategy, including working on a potential exit for Marc Casado, rather than seeking a direct replacement for de Jong.
De Jong’s injury was identified after a series of medical examinations conducted over several days. He had experienced discomfort during his international duties at the World Cup, where he was observed wearing a protective bandage on his right knee. Following the tournament, he was granted additional time off before undergoing further checks at Barcelona‘s training facilities earlier in the week.
Beyond the immediate injury, reports suggest that Hansi Flick‘s faith in de Jong has diminished. According to one report, the Barcelona manager has become increasingly unconvinced by de Jong’s recent performances and his role within the squad. This development has led to speculation that the club might consider offers for the midfielder if a suitable proposal emerges before the transfer window closes.
The relationship between Flick and de Jong reportedly began to deteriorate towards the end of last season, with trust between the two fading. A significant turning point is said to have occurred during Barcelona‘s UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid in the 2025/26 season. Despite being medically cleared to play for approximately an hour, de Jong reportedly chose not to feature, preferring to avoid unnecessary risks. This decision is believed to have significantly altered Flick‘s opinion of the midfielder, with their relationship reportedly worsening thereafter.
The uncertainty surrounding de Jong’s future at Barcelona now extends beyond his fitness. While he remains a senior figure in the dressing room, the club is awaiting clarity on his return from injury. The additional tension created by questions over his long-term place in Flick‘s plans further complicates the situation.
De Jong has previously faced several setbacks, including a serious ankle issue and a thigh injury that kept him sidelined for nearly two months last season.
The club’s current stance suggests they are no longer entirely opposed to the idea of selling the midfielder, a shift from previous transfer windows when he was considered untouchable. This means that if an appropriate offer is received during the summer transfer window, Barcelona could be prepared to part ways with de Jong.
The Netherlands international’s injury will keep him out for several weeks.
Source: goal.com
