Barcelona left in the dark over midfield star’s return despite training involvement

The case of Frenkie de Jong’s injury is strange, to say the least, and has left the club’s medical staff and administration bewildered.

Initially injured back in April against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu, the Dutchman was expected to be out for six to eight weeks with a return possible for the Euros.

By the time the European competition began, however, it was clear that he was far from his complete fitness and Ronald Koeman thus opted to drop him from the squad. Even at that point, it was seen as a normal case of missing his deadline.

Now, 25 weeks after his injury, Barcelona still have no clarity over when the midfielder can return and are seriously worried about his situation as revealed by AS.

Cloud of uncertainty

The midfield star indeed returned to group training last Monday and is feeling better in the affected ankle. However, he has yet to complete a session with the group and he is still not 100% comfortable.

On an optimistic stance, De Jong could make it into Barcelona’s squad list to face Getafe next Wednesday but it all depends on his sensations. As of today, there is still no clear date the club can confirm his availability.

De Jong’s bizarre injury sees him with varied sensations on a daily basis with the recovery not clearly moving in the direction the club wants. Doctors too are said to be baffled at his inconsistent recovery.

Barcelona considered the surgical option but De Jong took it straight off the table, refusing to go under the blade. Opting for the conservative route, however, does not appear to be doing any good.

The report adds that Hansi Flick has met several times with the Dutchman to know his situation and that he is urging the player to make an effort to return soon.

After all, the team needs his participation amidst the ongoing injury crisis with Gavi, Marc Bernal, Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo all injured.