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Barcelona's midfield received a huge boost as long-term absentee Frenkie de Jong is reportedly set to join group training next week. The Dutch midfielder suffered a nasty blow against Real Madrid in La Liga (April 22) when his left ankle was twisted after Federico Valverde's challenge. It was De Jong's third consecutive injury in the same ankle.
According to a report by Mundo Deportivo journalist Fernando Polo, De Jong will train with the group starting next week. The report also mentioned the Netherlands international is in good spirits and is on the verge of full recovery.
"Good news for Hansi Flick: Frenkie de Jong will join the group next week, initially on a partial basis, after five months of his ankle injury. In the last few days he has been working on his own at a good pace and without any discomfort," tweeted Fernando Polo. (translated from Spanish by Google).
The first such injury in September 2023 forced him to miss several games for club and country. In March, the 27-year-old suffered another blow to the same ankle during Barcelona's 0-0 draw with Athletic Club in La Liga. However, he recuperated quickly, spending only 35 days on the sidelines.
De Jong has been a key piece in Barcelona's midfield since he arrived from Ajax in the summer of 2019. In 213 appearances across competitions, the Dutchman has scored 17 goals and created 21 more. However, his main contribution lies in his ability to orchestrate the midfield.
Barcelona director reportedly not looking to sell Frenkie de Jong
Frenkie de Jong has long been linked with a move away from Camp Nou because of his injury woes and exorbitant wage bill. The Dutch midfielder is the highest-earning player in Barcelona, pocketing a reported sum of € 37,500,000 per year (via Capology).
Long-time suitors Manchester United have again been linked with the player, but Barcelona sporting director Deco insisted Barca don't want to part ways with De Jong.
"I don't understand all the talk about Frenkie. He has a contract with Barca and we are very happy with him. He is a player we are anxious to see come back because we need Frenkie. We want him to stay, but the player will decide at the right time. It is not a matter for now. What matters is that Frenkie plays with us again, because we need him and we value him very much," said Deco (via 90Min).
It remains to be seen when De Jong can finally make a comeback and join Pedri, Dani Olmo, Marc Casado, and others in the Blaugrana midfield.
