Barcelona future uncertain as Frenkie de Jong returns from knee injury

Frenkie de Jong has taken an important step in his recovery from a torn ligament in his right knee by rejoining Barcelona training, but the Netherlands midfielder faces a crucial period both physically and competitively.

De Jong suffered the injury after overexerting himself during the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. He returned to Hansi Flick’s squad on Tuesday and could be cleared to play in the coming weeks if he responds well as the intensity of training increases.

The 21-year-old has opted for conservative, non-surgical treatment, despite Barcelona’s medical staff recommending an operation, according to Catalan newspaper Sport. His knee has reacted positively so far, although the club will continue to monitor his recovery closely.

The major test begins now that De Jong is training at the same pace as his team-mates. Flick has personally told the midfielder he will not be selected until he has fully recovered.

Since taking charge at Spotify Camp Nou, the German manager has made clear that he will not risk players returning from injury. That approach is particularly significant in De Jong’s case, given the uncertainty surrounding his knee and his situation within the club.

Barcelona’s outstanding start to the season could also make it difficult for him to regain his place. The team have won all their matches so far and have impressed with the speed and quality of their performances, while their midfield has been a particular strength.

“There was an immediate impact from the signing of Rodri, the emergence of Marc Bernal and the excellent form of Pedri and Fermin Lopez, all while Dani Olmo, Gavi and Bryan Farinas are waiting for their opportunities,” Sport reported. “As a result, opportunities in Barcelona’s midfield will be scarce and difficult to obtain.”

De Jong remains confident he can force his way back into the side, but the current circumstances are not in his favour. He will need to produce exceptional performances in training to catch up with a team that had been moving at great speed before the international break.

The coming months are expected to define his role in Flick’s project. Barcelona’s sporting department will pay close attention to his involvement in matches before the winter transfer window, particularly because he is one of the squad’s highest earners and continues to attract interest in the transfer market.

De Jong has repeatedly said, both privately and publicly, that he wants to remain at Barcelona. Despite a spell at Camp Nou that has included more uncertainty than either he or the club had expected, the former Ajax player is not planning to leave and believes he can convince Flick that he deserves a central role.

However, at 29, he is approaching an important crossroads in his career. Manchester City considered signing him last summer, while Chelsea have monitored his situation closely following Enzo Fernandez’s move to the Citizens. Other major European clubs could also become interested if his position at Barcelona remains unresolved.

For now, the priority is a recovery without setbacks. If De Jong returns to his best, his comeback could represent an impressive “autumn signing” for a Barcelona side with major ambitions. After a summer of noise, including Flick removing the captaincy from De Jong and giving it to Raphinha, the club hopes his return will allow the focus to switch back to football.