Frenkie de Jong Could Miss Barcelona's Next El Clasico Despite Recovery Progress
Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is making progress in his recovery, but the Dutchman could still miss the club's next El Clasico despite being expected to return to group training soon.
De Jong has been sidelined since suffering an injury during the summer, with his decision to follow a conservative treatment plan contributing to a slower recovery process.
Barcelona have managed to cope with his absence so far, particularly thanks to the impressive midfield partnership between Pedri and Rodri.
However, De Jong is now moving closer to a return.
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De Jong Could Return to Group Training in October
According to Mundo Deportivo, the countdown to De Jong's return has already begun.
The report claims that the midfielder could rejoin group training around October 5, just as club football resumes following the international break.
That would represent an important step in his recovery, but it would not mean he is immediately ready to play competitive football.
After spending an extended period away from the squad, De Jong will need time to rebuild his rhythm, match fitness and understanding with his teammates.
Barcelona are therefore expected to take a cautious approach rather than rushing him back into action.
El Clasico Could Come Too Soon
Barcelona's next meeting with Real Madrid is scheduled for October 25, putting the fixture roughly three weeks after De Jong's expected return to group training.
While it is possible that the Dutchman could be available for selection by then, actually featuring in such a demanding match would be a different matter.
After a lengthy absence, throwing De Jong straight into an El Clasico could represent an unnecessary risk.
For that reason, the report suggests that November 1 against Alavés could be a more realistic target for his competitive return.
That would give the midfielder additional time to regain his physical condition and gradually return to his previous level.
Barcelona Can Afford to Be Patient
The good news for Barcelona is that they currently have strong alternatives in midfield.
Pedri and Rodri have formed an effective partnership, while Marc Bernal provides another option for Hansi Flick.
As long as the current midfielders remain healthy, Barcelona can afford to avoid taking unnecessary risks with De Jong's recovery.
His eventual return, however, will create an interesting selection dilemma for Flick.
De Jong Faces Huge Competition
Once fully fit, De Jong will have to fight for his place in a midfield that has already established itself without him.
Pedri has continued to play a central role for Barcelona, while Rodri's arrival has added experience, control and balance to the team.
De Jong therefore cannot simply expect to walk straight back into the starting XI.
Instead, he will need to demonstrate that he deserves a place ahead of two midfielders who are currently performing at a high level.
For now, Barcelona's priority will be getting De Jong completely fit.
His return may take a little longer than initially hoped, but the club appears determined to make sure that when he finally comes back, he is ready to stay on the pitch.
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