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.
