Club hopeful he could be available in time for their first Champions League fixture of the season
Frenkie de Jong has returned to light training at Barcelona as he continues his recovery from the muscle sustained during international duty with the Netherlands.
The midfielder was back on the pitch at the Ciutat Esportiva on Thursday, though he worked away from the main group and limited his involvement to individual exercises under the supervision of club physios.
De Jong has been nursing discomfort in the external obturator muscle of his right leg. While the issue is not considered serious, Barcelona are treating his recovery with caution, aware of the risk of worsening the problem if he is rushed back too soon.
The Dutchman joined training around 20 minutes after the rest of the squad and did not complete the full session. Even so, his presence on the pitch was regarded as an encouraging step, with Barcelona hopeful he could be available in time for their first Champions League fixture against Newcastle United on 18 September.
De Jong’s return would provide a major boost for Hansi Flick, whose squad has already been stretched by a run of early-season injuries. Midfielder Gavi is also under observation. Barcelona are continuing to monitor his situation but Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said he was “sad” and “waiting to see if a meniscus operation will be necessary”.
“He’s very strong and I offered him some encouragement because these are the moments where you grow stronger,” said De la Fuente.
