28-year-old Barcelona star targets Champions League return vs Newcastle after injury setback | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have dealt with some problematic injuries over the years. However, if they have learned one very valuable lesson, it is that they should not take any unnecessary risks with injured players. Even today, it seems clear enough that they now follow that lesson.

That approach is especially evident in the case of Frenkie de Jong. The 28-year-old Dutch midfielder is still recovering from an injury to the external obturator muscle in his right leg, sustained during international duty.

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, he continues to train apart from the group and is unlikely to feature against Valencia this weekend. Barcelona’s priority is to have him fully fit for their Champions League opener against Newcastle United on September 18.

Hansi Flick, therefore, will have to rely on other midfield options against Valencia, but De Jong’s recovery is not the only concern for the squad. Gavi, who has been sidelined due to discomfort in his right knee, is also out.

The 21-year-old Spaniard is continuing with conservative treatment for at least another week, after which a new evaluation will determine whether he can avoid surgery or not.

In addition, Alejandro Balde remains unavailable with a hamstring injury in his left leg. The left-back’s target return date is the high-profile clash against Paris Saint-Germain on October 1. Long-term absentee Marc-Andre ter Stegen also continues his rehabilitation.

On the brighter side, there was some encouraging news from the training ground. Marc Bernal, who has been out for a year with a serious knee injury, trained at the same pace as the rest of his teammates. The young midfielder is now close to receiving medical clearance and could even make the squad list for the game against Valencia.

With multiple injuries still affecting the squad, Barcelona will once again have to rely on their depth. It remains to be seen how Hansi Flick adjusts his tactics and manages the game time of the available options in the upcoming crucial fixtures.