Softfootball can confirm FC Barcelona have been dealt a fresh injury concern after Frenkie de Jong was forced to withdraw from training due to significant discomfort. The club has confirmed this medical reports via a post made on their official x page, early indications suggest the midfielder has sustained a muscular tear that could sideline him for between five and six weeks.
their statement:
Medical report First-team player Frenkie de Jong sustained an injury to the distal biceps of his right leg during this morning’s training session. Medical tests have confirmed that the expected recovery period will be approximately five to six weeks.
The issue emerged during a session at the Ciutat Esportiva, just as head coach Hansi Flick appeared to be navigating a demanding schedule with a near full squad. De Jong will miss up to seven matches across domestic and European competitions.
The 28-year-old is expected to be absent for the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético Madrid, as well as both legs of Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie, where they are set to face either Paris Saint-Germain F.C. or Newcastle United F.C..
In La Liga, Barcelona must also navigate challenging fixtures against Villarreal CF, Athletic Club, Sevilla FC and Rayo Vallecano without their primary deep-lying playmaker.
There remains only a slim possibility of a return in time for the Champions League second leg at Camp Nou in mid-March, but medical staff are proceeding with caution.
Given De Jong’s previous ankle and muscle issues, Barcelona are unwilling to risk a relapse that could jeopardise the remainder of his campaign. The injury is also likely to force his withdrawal from international duty with the Netherlands during the upcoming break.
The setback comes shortly after Barcelona confirmed that Pedri and Marcus Rashford are fit and available for selection against Levante UD in La Liga.
Meanwhile, the club remain in advanced negotiations to sign Rashford permanently for €30 million following his 2025/26 loan from Manchester United F.C..
Before Pedri’s return, De Jong had been carrying a substantial defensive and creative burden, often operating as a lone pivot supported by Fermín López and Dani Olmo, while also aiding the integration of emerging talent such as Marc Bernal.
His ability to drive forward from deep had become central to Flick’s evolving tactical structure. Now, with Barcelona entering the most critical phase of the season, the German coach must once again reshape his midfield blueprint at a pivotal moment.
