Barcelona midfielder will undergo tests to check for injury after Real Sociedad clash

Frenkie de Jong’s fitness has been a matter of concern in Catalonia for a while now, especially after the player faced several months out with an ankle injury last season and thus missed the initial phase of the new campaign.

The Dutchman only returned to the field in Barcelona’s game against Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League and progressively increased his minutes off the bench.

He started his first game after his return against Crvena Zvezda and last night’s clash against Real Sociedad was only his second start of the season.

Unfortunately, however, the player was injured in the 25th minute after a rather soft challenge. He did continue until half-time but could no longer go on and was substituted.

Tests underway

As relayed by Mundo Deportivo, the 27-year-old left the stadium limping last night and will undergo tests later today to determine the nature of his setback.

Hansi Flick and Co. will hope he has only faced a contusion and that he should be back to participate in the team’s games after the international break.

The primary objective of the tests, however, is to ensure that he has not suffered a new injury to his knee that will keep him out longer. After all, the player was just beginning to find his rhythm back for Barcelona.

A concurrent topic to be monitored is the player’s participation for the Dutch national team in the current international break, for he would be better off resting if indeed he has suffered a fitness setback.

In four league games for Barcelona this season, De Jong has averaged just 0.5 key passes and 1.2 defensive actions per game. There has, in fact, been large criticism over his overtly safe style of play that slows the team down.