Barcelona concerned about midfielder’s fitness as he could miss start of new season | OneFootball

The coming few weeks will be crucial for FC Barcelona as they kickstart their preparations for the season ahead.

However, new coach Hansi Flick will miss out on the services of multiple star players, who are in first-team action this summer. One of them is Frenkie de Jong, though perhaps not for the reasons one would have expected.

The Dutchman, who was expected to play a crucial role for the Netherlands in Euro 2024, has been completely ruled out of Euros due to an ankle injury.

Concerns seeping into the Barcelona camp

As reported by Diari ARA, de Jong’s problems with an ankle injury are causing some discomfort within the Barcelona camp, which believes there might be a deeper problem lying ahead.

De Jong has suffered three ankle injuries this past season, and recent consultations with a specialist have painted a worrying picture.

Worrying signs for Barcelona (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The specialist highlighted an instability or rigidity in the joint, indicating potential chronic issues. Surgery isn’t guaranteed to fully restore functionality, leaving physical therapy as the only course of action for now.

When will de Jong return to action?

The report further suggests that de Jong’s availability at the start of the season remains unclear in light of his recent troubles.

This extended recovery period throws a wrench into Barcelona’s plans. De Jong, after all, was expected to be a lynchpin in midfield under Hansi Flick’s new system.

But his extended absence could now raise serious questions over the midfielder’s long-term future at Barcelona.

If de Jong’s ankle problem continues, it will significantly dent his valuation in the market as well – something that, up until this point, was considered one of Barcelona’s key economic levers.