A key Barcelona midfielder was absent from today’s training session at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, excused for personal reasons.
FC Barcelona resumed training at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper today, gearing up for their second La Liga match of the 2025/26 season against UD Levante.
Following a hard-fought victory over RCD Mallorca in their season opener, the Blaugrana are determined to maintain their winning momentum.
However, one notable absence from the training session raised eyebrows, as a pivotal squad member was excused by the club for personal reasons, highlighting the balance between professional commitments and personal milestones.
The absent player was none other than Frenkie de Jong, the 28-year-old Dutch midfielder central to Hansi Flick’s tactical setup.
According to Mundo Deportivo, De Jong missed the session with the club’s permission to attend a hospital alongside his partner, Mikky Kiemeney, who is preparing to give birth to their second child.
The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Miles, on November 21, 2023—a date chosen to honor De Jong’s late grandfather, with whom he shared a deep bond.
This personal connection is reflected in De Jong’s choice of the No. 21 shirt, a tribute to his grandfather, who passed away on the midfielder’s 21st birthday.
De Jong’s absence underscores his commitment to family during this joyous moment, and the club’s approval reflects their support for the player’s personal life.
As a key cog in Barcelona’s midfield, De Jong’s presence on the pitch is vital, but his temporary absence is unlikely to disrupt preparations for the upcoming clash at Ciudad de Valencia.
The team remains focused on securing another victory to build early-season momentum.
The Barcelona community extends heartfelt congratulations to him and Mikky on their growing family.
The midfielder’s dedication to both club and family exemplifies the values that endear him to supporters, and his return to the pitch will be eagerly anticipated as he continues to shine in the Blaugrana colors.
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