Sports
Frenkie de Jong’s Ankle Injury Poses New Concerns for Barcelona
Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong’s recovery from an ankle injury may face further complications, raising concerns at the club.
While a potential return for the Catalan derby against Girona in mid-September had been discussed, RAC1 reports that Barcelona is worried about the ongoing weakness in de Jong’s ankle. The 27-year-old is reportedly dealing with chronic instability in the joint, which makes it vulnerable to additional injury even if he returns to play.
Sources indicate that a minor impact or a strong tackle could trigger a relapse, despite the possibility of his return within a few weeks. Barcelona is concerned that de Jong may eventually need surgery to fully address the ligament instability, a situation compounded by the injury to Marc Bernal, who is sidelined for the season with an ACL injury.
The club’s apprehension is heightened by the lack of midfield options, and the handling of de Jong’s recovery will be scrutinized, especially after Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman previously criticized Barcelona for rushing de Jong back from an earlier injury. A relapse could have serious implications for both the player and the team’s performance.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially designated Morocco as the host for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League finals. The tournament will take place from November 9 to November 23, as announced on CAF’s official website.
Morocco previously hosted the last edition of this prestigious competition. Among the eight teams competing this year is Nigeria’s champions, Edo Queens. The current title holders are Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa.
The tournament offers significant financial incentives, with winners receiving $400,000 and runners-up taking home $250,000.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 10 international hat-tricks after scoring three times in a dominant 6-0 victory against Bolivia in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
In addition to his goals, the 37-year-old forward also provided two assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. With this win, Argentina solidifies its position in the South American qualifiers, currently leading the table three points ahead of second-placed Colombia and six points clear of their arch-rivals Brazil.
On the same evening, Ronaldo’s Portugal faced Scotland in the UEFA Nations League but was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw, leaving the superstar visibly upset post-match.
Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho, is reportedly planning a January transfer move for Barcelona forward Ansu Fati. After spending last season on loan at Brighton in the Premier League, Fati, now 21, returned to Barcelona but has struggled for game time under new coach Hansi Flick.
Once considered a potential successor to Lionel Messi, Fati’s limited opportunities at Barça have fueled speculation about a possible departure. According to *AS*, Mourinho is keen to bring the Spain international to the Turkish league, offering him the chance for regular football at Fenerbahce.
Fenerbahce’s sporting director, Mario Branco, is expected to initiate discussions with Fati’s representatives soon, confident that the promise of consistent playing time will help secure the forward’s move.
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