Confirmed: Barcelona midfielder sidelined with knee ligament tear; out for 5-6 months | OneFootball

Barcelona have officially confirmed that Frenkie de Jong has suffered a tear of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee, validating fears that the Dutch midfielder faces a significant spell on the sidelines.

In a medical statement released by the club, Barcelona announced that De Jong will undergo conservative treatment over the coming weeks while doctors closely monitor his recovery.

At this stage, surgery has not been scheduled, although the player’s progress will determine whether an operation eventually becomes necessary.

“The tests carried out on first-team player Frenkie de Jong have determined that he is suffering from a tear in the medial collateral ligament of his right knee,” the club statement read.

“It has been agreed that the player will continue under medical treatment and monitoring, pending his progress over the coming weeks.”

Lengthy time out

The club did not provide an estimated return date, stating only that De Jong will remain under medical supervision throughout his rehabilitation.

While Barcelona avoided giving a timetable, the injury represents a major setback ahead of the new season.

However, according to journalist Javi Miguel of AS, De Jong could be for as long as five to six months, meaning he could miss the entire first half of the 2026/27 season, in what comes as a huge blow for Barcelona.

Injury during the World Cup

De Jong had been playing through discomfort in his knee during the World Cup before the injury ultimately deteriorated.

He underwent medical examinations at Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper last Friday, where the full extent of the damage was confirmed.

The midfielder returned to the training complex again on Wednesday to finalise the club’s medical report before its public release.

De Jong was injured during the World Cup. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Flick must find solutions

De Jong’s absence leaves Hansi Flick with an important gap to fill in midfield as Barcelona prepare for the start of the season.

The German coach will now look to the rest of his midfield options to compensate for the loss of one of the team’s key players.

The upcoming preseason friendlies are expected to provide an opportunity to assess different combinations and determine which younger players are ready to contribute alongside the senior squad during De Jong’s recovery.

Barcelona will continue to monitor the Dutch international’s condition in the coming weeks before making any decision on whether surgery becomes necessary.