Barcelona is reportedly experiencing growing frustration with midfielder Frenkie de Jong regarding the management of his foot injury. The Dutch international sustained a knock and, upon returning to Catalonia after the World Cup, medical tests confirmed a ligament injury. The club’s medical staff has expressed a preference for surgery, viewing it as a definitive solution. However, De Jong has opted for a conservative treatment approach.
This situation has created a point of contention between the player and the club’s medical team. De Jong’s chosen treatment was initially expected to keep him sidelined for a few weeks. The possibility of surgery remains, which could significantly extend his recovery period, potentially up to four or five months.
Injury management and club concerns
The management of De Jong’s injury is impacting Hansi Flick’s tactical preparations for his debut season as coach. Reports suggest that there is a sense of resentment within the club regarding De Jong’s priorities over the past year. Some within the Camp Nou offices reportedly feel that he did not give his full effort during the latter part of the 2025-26 campaign, with his focus seemingly on being fit for the World Cup with the Netherlands.
During his absences, De Jong’s guaranteed starting position faced competition from emerging talents and established players. The rise of Marc Bernal and the return of Gavi meant that De Jong was no longer the sole focal point in transitioning from defense to attack. He did not participate in the final two domestic season games before joining Ronald Koeman’s national team.
The frequency of De Jong’s injuries is also a concern for both Flick and Sporting Director Deco. Over the last three seasons, he has missed 56 matches due to various physical issues. This tally would increase with any missed games at the start of the 2026-27 season.
Midfield implications and transfer market
The uncertainty surrounding De Jong’s recovery has significant implications for Barcelona’s midfield plans. The club is currently pursuing Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who is considered a top priority to strengthen the pivot role. His potential arrival could significantly alter De Jong’s standing within the squad. Reports indicate that Rodri has already agreed to personal terms with the Catalan club, which would introduce direct competition for De Jong.
Initially, Barcelona did not intend to strengthen the midfield, believing they had sufficient players. Even with De Jong’s injury, the club maintains the idea of selling Marc Casado, who plays in a similar position. However, if surgery for De Jong is confirmed, the club is not ruling out seeking another midfielder in the market. Deco has already inquired about Rodri’s situation and other midfielders.
The general consensus around the Ciutat Esportiva is that this season could be Frenkie de Jong’s last as a Barcelona player. While the club cannot transfer him while he is injured, the breakdown in trust over his injury management has accelerated discussions about his long-term future. Were he fully fit, sources suggest he might have been placed on the transfer list alongside other midfielders like Marc Casado and Tommy Marques, whose exits are described as imminent.
The standoff between the player’s preference for conservative treatment and the club’s demand for surgery is expected to define the next six months of his career.
Separately, Barcelona is also reportedly preparing an initial offer for Girona FC midfielder Azzedine Ounahi. This offer is estimated at 10 million euros. However, Real Betis has also entered the race with a higher financial offer for the Moroccan international.
The situation with De Jong and the pursuit of other midfielders highlight a period of significant decisions for Barcelona’s midfield ahead of the new season.
Source: goal.com
