De Jong’s Injury Management Causes Club Frustration
Barcelona is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with midfielder Frenkie de Jong due to his ongoing foot injury and his rejection of surgical intervention. The Dutch international has not shown physical improvement since sustaining the injury, leading to contention between the player and the club’s medical staff. This situation has emerged particularly after De Jong returned to Catalonia following the Netherlands’ exit from the World Cup.
The club’s medical team has indicated a preference for surgery, viewing it as the definitive solution for the underlying issue. However, De Jong’s preference for a non-invasive approach is anticipated to keep him sidelined for an extended period, with some estimates suggesting he could be out for up to six months, depending on his response to treatment. This prolonged absence presents a significant challenge for Hansi Flick’s tactical preparations for his debut season with the Blaugrana.
Concerns Over Player Priorities and Squad Dynamics
Beyond the current medical stalemate, a sense of resentment reportedly exists within Barcelona regarding De Jong’s perceived priorities over the past year. Reports suggest that some within the club feel the 29-year-old did not exert his maximum effort during the final stages of the 2025-26 campaign, seemingly prioritising his fitness for the World Cup with the Netherlands. During his frequent absences, De Jong’s guaranteed starting position faced competition from emerging talents and established players.
The rise of Marc Bernal and the return of Gavi meant that De Jong was no longer the undisputed central figure in the transition from defense to attack. He did not participate in the final two domestic league matches before joining Ronald Koeman’s national team. This period of absence and the perceived shift in priorities have contributed to discussions about his long-term future at Camp Nou.
Impact of Rodri Pursuit and Future Uncertainty
The timing of De Jong’s injury crisis is particularly sensitive given Barcelona’s pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The Spanish international is considered a top priority for the club to strengthen the pivot role, and his potential arrival could significantly alter De Jong’s position within the squad. If Barcelona manages to acquire Rodri while adhering to Financial Fair Play regulations, the midfield could face an “overbooking” situation.
Reports indicate that Rodri has already agreed to personal terms with the Catalan club, and his expected arrival would introduce direct competition for De Jong, a level not seen in years. Rodri is not only expected to secure a starting spot but is also viewed as a mentor for Marc Bernal. While the club cannot transfer De Jong while he is injured, the reported breakdown in trust regarding his injury management has intensified discussions about his future. Sources suggest that if he were fully fit, he might have already been placed on the transfer list alongside other midfielders like Marc Casado and Tommy Marques, whose departures are described as imminent. The standoff between De Jong’s preference for conservative treatment and the club’s demand for surgery is expected to define the next six months of his career.
Meanwhile, Barcelona is also reportedly preparing an initial offer of 10 million euros for Girona FC’s Moroccan midfielder Azzedine Ounahi. However, Real Betis has also entered the race with a higher financial offer for Ounahi, who played 24 matches for Girona in La Liga last season.
The future of Ounahi, who returned to Girona pre-season training after the World Cup, remains a topic of speculation, with Real Madrid also reportedly showing interest. Girona is not in a hurry to sell the 26-year-old unless their financial demands are met.
Source: goal.com
