Barcelona’s preparations for the new season have suffered a significant blow before they have even properly begun.
With Hansi Flick preparing to build on last season’s progress, the German coach has now been dealt a major headache after one of his most influential midfielders was ruled out through injury.
The club have officially confirmed the diagnosis.
Barcelona announced on X that Frenkie de Jong has sustained a tear to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee following medical examinations.
The injury comes after the Dutch international featured throughout the World Cup while managing discomfort, before the issue worsened during the tournament.
In an official statement, Barcelona confirmed the extent of the setback.
“The tests carried out on first-team player Frenkie de Jong have determined that he is suffering from a tear in the medial collateral ligament of his right knee.”
The club also outlined the initial recovery plan.
“It has been agreed that the player will continue under medical treatment and monitoring, pending his progress over the coming weeks.”
For now, Barcelona have opted against surgery.
Instead, Frenkie de Jong will undergo conservative treatment while the club’s medical staff closely monitor his rehabilitation, although an operation has not been completely ruled out should his recovery fail to progress as expected.
Barcelona have deliberately avoided placing a timeframe on the midfielder’s return, leaving uncertainty over exactly how much of the new campaign he could miss.
What is clear, however, is that Flick will now have to find a solution in midfield without one of the club’s most experienced players.
The injury is particularly frustrating given De Jong had continued representing the Netherlands despite already dealing with knee discomfort during the World Cup.
That issue has now escalated into an injury that leaves Barcelona facing an important period without one of the first names on Flick’s teamsheet.
With the season fast approaching, the Blaugrana must now prepare for the opening weeks of the campaign knowing one of their midfield leaders will be watching from the sidelines.
COMUNICADO MÉDICO
Las pruebas realizadas al jugador del primer equipo Frenkie de Jong han determinado que sufre una rotura del ligamento lateral interno de la rodilla derecha. Se ha acordado que el jugador continúe bajo tratamiento y seguimiento médico, pendiente de su evolución… pic.twitter.com/4b7aBvyK5Q
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) July 23, 2026
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