Barcelona will finally be able to use it Frenkie de Jong back for the first time since going down injured during the Clasico in mid-April. The Dutch midfielder has been back in training in the last week or two, and will be in their squad for their Champions League debut at home against Swiss side Young Boys.
De Jong has suffered various recurrences of an ankle injury, which happened on three occasions last season, and once more before Euro 2024. However, he has returned to training in the last two weeks, and it looks like he'll be ready for action. again, since he has to return to the team.
“Yes, it's great news to be able to have Frenkie in the team, whether for five or ten minutes. It's very important for us. We've had injured players, they're finally coming back, and after October we'll get two or three back. We're all happy when they come back, and it will also be good for Frenkie to come back, to be here, to be able to be with the young people.
“Frenkie's attitude was great, he was willing to help the team. And if he has the chance to play, he will. I don't know if he will be ready for 45 minutes, but maybe 20 or 10. And he will well, I think so.
Flick was also asked what his thoughts were for central midfield, as Eric Garcia is suspended for the clash against Young Boys, following his red card against AS Monaco.
“In the case of Frenkie, we will see how the game goes. With Eric's red card we have lost a midfielder and if we count, there are not many players in this position. It is important that few mistakes are made in the center of the field”.
Gavi feels good, and if he had to decide, he would go back to playing already. The forecast is that he could return after the international break, when the schedule will be very demanding. @alexpintanel
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) September 30, 2024
The Blaugrana are down to Marc Casado, Pablo Torre and Pedri as other alternatives for Tuesday night's clash, although Raphinha has also been used in midfield. At one point it looked like de Jong would be out for the rest of the year, with club officials recommending he undergo surgery. The Dutch playmaker has denied that was the case however.
