Barcelona star racing to be fit for Champions League opener | OneFootball

Barcelona have not had an easy start to the new season, and injury problems have crept in over the last few weeks. Robert Lewandowski, Alejandro Balde and Gavi have all been affected, and this is also the case for Frenkie de Jong.

During the international break, de Jong was forced to withdraw from The Netherlands’ squad due to a minor injury, and it has since been confirmed that he will almost certainly miss Barcelona’s next match, which is against Valencia on Sunday.

It has been decided that no risks will be taken with de Jong, and it has been decided between all parties that he will not be involved against Valencia. It is also far from guaranteed that he plays against Newcastle United next Thursday, but according to Alex Pintanel, the midfielder has set his sights on being involved in the Champions League opener at St James’ Park.

Image via El Nacional

The fact that the match against Newcastle is not until the Thursday works in de Jong’s favour, as he will have an extra day or two to get to 100%, thus making it more likely that he can start for Flick’s side. However, that is not guaranteed, and he has plenty of work to do in order to be ready.

Barcelona need Frenkie de Jong against Newcastle

It is certain that Barcelona will need de Jong at St James’ Park, given that Newcastle will attempt to suffocate the Catalans with the same high-pressing game that put Paris Saint-Germain to the sword two years ago. The Dutchman is one of Flick’s most press-resistant players, so it would be a match that he’d be effective.

It remains to be seen whether de Jong is available to face Newcastle, but those associated with Barcelona will be desperately hoping that he will be fit enough to start.