Why Frenkie de Jong is absent for Barcelona vs Alavés | OneFootball

An explanation for the absence of Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona’s latest matchday squad has been forthcoming online.

This comes amid confirmation that the Dutchman is dealing with personal matters away from the pitch.

As per a report from the reliable RAC1:

‘Frenkie de Jong is out for today’s match for family reasons.’

With De Jong ruled out against Deportivo Alavés, and Pedri only fit enough to take his place on the bench, Hansi Flick opted for a new-look pairing to form the base of his midfield on Saturday.

The two Marcs, Bernal and Casadó, have been entrusted with patrolling the middle of the park at the Spotify Camp Nou for the evening.

With Fermín López also unavailable after suffering an injury this week, Dani Olmo was restored to his role as midfield spearhead, since justifying his inclusion by way of netting Barcelona’s 2nd of the clash.

Conor Laird – GSFN