Barcelona is going through a difficult start to the season. Frenkie de Jong's recent injury during international duty has caused concern, although the initial medical reports are encouraging. The Dutch midfielder missed part of the international matches and had to return to Barcelona earlier than planned.
How the injury happened
Frenkie de Jong was injured in the match between the Netherlands and Poland, being substituted in the 83rd minute. What seemed like a routine change turned out to be a precautionary measure. Ronald Koeman, Netherlands coach, clarified that it wasn't tactical. "Frenkie was already experiencing symptoms during the match, that's why we took him off. I don't think it's very serious, but it's too risky to let him play."
The player also missed the match against Latvia, and upon returning to Barcelona, he was received by the club's medical team, who began a detailed follow-up of the injury.
Assessment and care in Barcelona
On the first day of his return, De Jong spent 48 hours under observation to allow the inflammation to subside. Afterwards, he underwent medical tests that confirmed a muscle injury in the external obturator muscle of his right leg. Barcelona's official statement explains that the condition requires specific work, but it's not serious.
The club emphasizes that recovery will depend on the player's progress. Forcing his return too soon could result in a more serious injury. For this reason, the doctors and coaching staff have decided to be cautious.
Time out and affected matches
Although Barcelona hasn't given an exact return date, this type of injury usually requires between 7 and 10 days of recovery. This means De Jong will miss the team's upcoming matches: the league match against Valencia and the Champions League match against Newcastle.
If everything progresses positively, the player could return the following weekend, when Getafe visits Camp Nou. The key will be to respect the recovery times and ensure the midfielder returns in optimal condition.
Team context and upcoming challenges
Hansi Flick isn't going through an easy time. De Jong's injury adds to other physical problems in the squad: Alejandro Balde remains out and Lamine Yamal is experiencing back discomfort during his matches with Spain. The combination of injuries and the international break complicates the German coach's planning.
Even so, the news of Frenkie's injury has a positive side: the condition isn't serious, and the estimated recovery period is short. This allows the team to get one of its key players back soon. Patience and caution will be essential to avoid relapses and keep Barcelona's competitiveness in the upcoming matches.