Barcelona midfielder’s ankle still a cause for concern for the club

Several Barcelona players underwent medical examinations ahead of the season, on the first day of the pre-season under new manager Hansi Flick.

Frenkie de Jong, who is closing in on a long-awaited return from an ankle injury, also underwent medical tests today.

Barcelona shared a video clip of the midfielder on X with the message ‘Check OK!’, confirming his successful medical clearance like his peers.

Nevertheless, concerns persist regarding his right ankle’s condition.

Frenkie’s ankle causes concern

Indeed, as per SPORT, despite clearing the medical check-ups, Barcelona are worried about the state of Frenkie de Jong’s right ankle as it still appears to be quite swollen.

The Dutchman sustained an injury to his ankle in Barcelona’s most recent encounter against Real Madrid in April this year.

While he was initially foreseen to simply miss four to six weeks, the midfielder’s recovery process did not go as expected and he missed the Euros with the Netherlands.

The national team justified their decision by arguing that a recent check showed his ankle was not yet strong enough.

Considering the noticeable swelling in the joint, De Jong’s exclusion and lengthy absence begin to make sense.

Barcelona will proceed with caution

The report adds that following Frenkie de Jong’s recent medical evaluation, he will continue his individual recovery process while his teammates begin pre-season training.

His right ankle has been a persistent issue throughout 2024, and the club’s priority is cautious management.

“He’s had very bad luck,” confirmed sources from within the locker room. This marks his third injury in the same area since late 2023.

However, Barcelona aspire to tread lightly with De Jong and not shoehorn him back into the squad without having him return to full fitness.

Given that the fear of chronic injury is beginning to creep in, Barcelona aim to put a bed to these recurring ailments in his ankle once and for all.