An illness has struck a key FC Barcelona midfielder, casting doubt over his availability for the crucial El Clasico showdown.
Second in La Liga with 19 points after a 6-1 Champions League rout of Olympiacos, Hansi Flick’s squad faces a pivotal clash with table-toppers Madrid.
With Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, and Marc-André ter Stegen already sidelined, a new concern in midfield threatens to weaken the Blaugrana’s engine room.
Frenkie de Jong did not train on Tuesday, leaving Ciutat Esportiva early due to illness, as reported by Carlos Monfort.
The 28-year-old Dutch midfielder, contracted until 2026, is central to Flick’s high-pressing system, offering vision and control with eight assists this season.
His absence, alongside Gavi and Joan Garcia, heightens pressure on Barcelona’s depth, with three days left for recovery.
The medical team is monitoring his condition closely, but his participation remains in doubt.
De Jong’s potential absence would force reliance on Marc Casado and Eric Garcia in midfield, with Pedri rested against Olympiacos.
Hansi Flick, suspended for the match, will depend on assistant Marcus Sorg to orchestrate tactics against Madrid’s Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha’s returns boost the attack, but losing de Jong’s composure could expose Barcelona to Madrid’s transitions, especially with David Alaba out.
Barcelona’s €380m Spotify deal supports their title push, but Ronald Araujo’s frustrations and a thin squad test resilience.
The Olympiacos win showcased ruthlessness, yet defensive lapses and excessive fouls need addressing. De Jong’s illness, if prolonged, could tilt the Clasico balance, with Sorg tasked to channel Flick’s intensity.
As Barcelona aims to seize La Liga’s top spot, de Jong’s recovery is critical to maintaining midfield dominance and securing a statement victory in one of football’s fiercest rivalries.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
