Hansi Flick planning without Frenkie de Jong as Barcelona fear lengthy absence | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are preparing for the opening months of the new season without Frenkie de Jong, with Hansi Flick already adjusting his midfield plans amid growing concern over the Dutchman’s knee injury.

According to AS, the initial prognosis for De Jong’s right knee is increasingly pessimistic. Barcelona have yet to officially confirm the diagnosis, but there are fears that his absence could extend beyond the initially suggested four-month timeframe.

De Jong has undergone two rounds of medical examinations. The first was complicated by significant swelling in his knee, before further tests were conducted several days later once the inflammation had subsided.

The report suggests surgery is now considered a possible option, although no final decision has been made and no official diagnosis has been announced by Barcelona.

What appears clearer is that Flick is no longer planning around his captain for the immediate future. De Jong is not expected to participate in the pre-season camp in England, the tournament in Udine or the Joan Gamper Trophy, while his involvement in the La Liga opener against Elche is also effectively ruled out.

His absence would be a significant blow given the importance Flick has consistently placed on the midfielder.

Marc Bernal could receive major opportunity

Barcelona’s response, however, is expected to come from within the existing squad rather than through another signing.

Marc Bernal is reportedly receiving particular attention in Flick’s planning. The German coach is a major admirer of the La Masia midfielder, and De Jong’s absence could provide him with a significant opportunity to establish himself in the first team.

Xavi Espart is another internal alternative. Although used as a right-back by Flick, the youngster is naturally comfortable in midfield and recently impressed as a pivot for Spain at the Under-19 European Championship.

For Barcelona, losing De Jong for several months would force an unwanted rethink, particularly at the beginning of a season in which the club have major ambitions.

Yet it could also accelerate the development of another generation of La Masia talent. Bernal, in particular, now has a genuine opportunity to take responsibility in midfield.

Until Barcelona communicate the full extent of De Jong’s injury, caution is necessary. However, Flick is seemingly preparing for the worst-case scenario, and his early solution appears to be trusting the young talent already available to him.