De jong out for months. Once again, nobody at Barcelona knows how many

FC Barcelona have confirmed that Frenkie de Jong suffered a tear to the medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Following club tradition, Barça announced the diagnosis but not the expected recovery time. AS reports that he could be out for five or six months, while German outlet Barçawelt estimates around three. Medicine is one thing, but at Barcelona even a rehabilitation schedule needs several different versions.

De Jong himself revealed that the injury was initially considered minor and that he was allowed to continue playing at the World Cup. Only later examinations revealed more serious damage. Surgery is not required for now. The Dutchman also found himself having to explain to supporters that he remains fully committed to the club, because at Barça a player’s injury can quickly turn into a debate about his loyalty.

According to figures compiled by Barca Universal, De Jong has already missed more than 400 days through injury since joining from Ajax. He could now add another 150. Barcelona signed him in 2019 as a midfielder for the next decade. Seven years later, they are still waiting for a season in which the Dutchman remains available for longer than the club’s excuses.

Hansi Flick will therefore begin the season without one of his most important midfielders. Fortunately, the squad is deep. At least until Barcelona decide to sell one of De Jong’s replacements to finance a replacement for De Jong.