Barcelona suffer huge blow as Frenkie de Jong could be out until November
Frenkie de Jong could be out until November after suffering an injury during Barcelona’s 3-2 win against Celta Vigo.
De Jong was substitued after the half-hour mark due to an ankle problem. Furthermore, the club confirmed that the Dutchman has sprained his right ankle.
The cub released a statement after the match that said: “Tests carried out have shown that Frenkie de Jong has a high right ankle sprain. He is out and his recovery will determine his availability.”
Frenkie de Jong set to miss El Clasico
According to reports, De Jong could be out for over a month as no time period has been provided for his recovery and return.
It would mean that the 24-year-old would miss crucial matches against the likes of Sevilla, FC Porto, Athletic Club, and Shakhtar Donetsk. Moreover, it also means that he will miss the all important El Clasico against Real Madrid, which will take place on October 28.
This is a huge blow for the Catalan giants, who are already without another key midfielder in the name of Pedri. The 20-year-old is not expected to return until after the upcoming international break in October.
The options Xavi has to replace Frenkie de Jong
With two key midfielders in Pedri and De Jong out, Xavi will have to use other options in the midfield. But who will he start?
De Jong’s injury mean that Oriol Romeu is likely to be a regular starter as he is only defensive midfielder in the squad. Ilkay Gundogan is also very versatile and can easily slot into De Jong’s position.
However, one player who has impressed everyone is Gavi. The 19-year-old controlled the midfield against Celta Vigo and also assisted for the third goal.
Matches are coming thick and fast, and Xavi will have to use his whole squad. Sergi Roberto and Fermin Lopez are options, while youngsters Marc Casado and Unai Hernandez may also be utilised.
There is no doubt that Barca will miss De Jong’s presence on the pitch, but big clubs like them have to cope with the problems. Xavi has plenty of options, and most of them will be used over the coming weeks.
