Barcelona captain to receive medical all-clear next week, could return against Getafe or Osasuna | OneFootball

After five months out on the sidelines, Barcelona midfielder and third captain, Frenkie de Jong, returned to group training today, in what is a huge boost for the team.

The Netherlands international did part of the session with the entire squad, taking a concrete step towards making his return after being out of action since late April due to an ankle injury.

De Jong opted against undergoing surgery and has stuck to conservative treatment as he was advised by those close to him that there was no guarantee that an operation would guarantee complete recovery.

There had been some discontent brewing within the club about his situation, but De Jong’s return to training today means that an on-field comeback is now on the horizon.

De Jong could be back as early as next week

In fact, according to Ferran Correas of SPORT, Frenkie de Jong could receive the green light from the Barcelona medical department as early as next week.

The 27-year-old spent the last week training alone, putting some pressure on his injured right ankle with the help of physiotherapists and trainers.

Inching closer to a return. (Photo by KOEN VAN WEEL/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

The Dutchman felt very good and that is why he joined the group training on Monday, although he did not do all the exercises.

The next step will be for him to complete the full training session with the group, which could happen later this week.

And, if the former Ajax midfielder’s feelings continue to be good, the idea is that he can receive medical clearance next week and be included in the squad list, either in the midweek match against Getafe (25 Sept) or in the match against Osasuna (28 Sept).

Flick eagerly waiting

The report further adds that manager Hansi Flick is eagerly waiting for the return of Frenkie de Jong.

After all, the German tactician has a lot of confidence in the Dutchman and also needs to recover some midfielders amidst the injury woes.

Barcelona have lost Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez and Marc Bernal to injuries this season while Gavi is also yet to make a return.