Barcelona midfielder will receive medical clearance next week – out of Getafe, Osasuna games

FC Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is making progress in his recovery as he participates in the team’s latest training session as he inches closer to a comeback after five months out.

Since resuming training the pitch on September 16, he has been following a routine where he trains with the group at the start of the session, but completes it with specific exercises alongside Gavi, another player nearing the end of his rehabilitation.

Clearance next week

Earlier reports had suggested that De Jong could receive his medical discharge as early as this week and may well be in contention to feature against Getafe tomorrow or at the weekend against CA Osasuna.

However, as per the latest update from SPORT, the 27-year-old will be given the green light from the club’s medical department next week.

As such, while he will miss the next two matches against Getafe and Osasuna, there is hope that he will be available to face Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League next week.

If not, the subsequent La Liga game against Deportivo Alaves right before the international break in October could be when the Netherlands star makes his comeback.

De Jong’s return will be a boost for Hansi Flick

If all goes well, coach Hansi Flick will regain a versatile player in De Jong, who can operate in multiple midfield roles next week.

Once he returns, the Dutchman would slot into the double pivot, currently occupied by Pedri and Marc Casado, with Eric Garcia also filling in as a makeshift option despite his preference of playing in defence.

Given the current situation, De Jong is likely to become a key asset for Flick in a central role. His return could also allow the manager to push Pedri further up the field while awaiting the recoveries of Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, both of whom are sidelined with muscle injuries.