Frenkie de Jong is set to make his long-awaited return for Barcelona in their upcoming Champions League clash against Swiss champions Young Boys. The Dutch international, who has been out with an ankle injury since April, is expected to be included in the squad, according to head coach Hansi Flick. This marks De Jong’s first competitive appearance in nearly six months, having missed the European Championship this summer due to his injury.
De Jong, 27, has been an integral part of Barcelona’s midfield since joining the club, and his absence has been felt both domestically and in European competition. Flick confirmed during a news conference that while De Jong may not be ready for a full match, his return will be invaluable to the team. “This is super good news to have Frenkie back with us,” Flick said. “Even if it’s just for five or 10 minutes, he’s very important for us, and we’re happy he’s involved again.”
Flick also praised De Jong’s commitment during his recovery, noting that the midfielder has maintained a strong connection with the squad throughout his rehabilitation. “Frenkie’s attitude is great,” Flick said. “He’s been involved with the team, supporting them and offering guidance even when he couldn’t play. His presence in the dressing room is something we’ve missed, and now that he’s fit enough for some minutes, it’s a big boost.”
Despite De Jong’s return, Flick was cautious about rushing him back into full action. “He’s going to be ready, not for 45 minutes, but maybe for 20 or 10, and that will already help him a lot,” Flick explained. “We need to manage his minutes carefully to avoid any setbacks, but the important thing is that he’s back and ready to help the team.”
Barcelona is still dealing with several other injuries that have hampered their squad depth. Key players like Gavi and Ronald Araujo remain unavailable, while defender Eric Garcia is suspended following his red card in their Champions League opener against Monaco. These absences have forced Flick to rotate his lineup frequently, and the team has struggled for consistency, particularly in European competition.
The Catalan giants lost their opening Champions League match away to Monaco, and they have not been at their best in Europe in recent years. Last season, they reached the quarterfinals for the first time in four years, but the five-time champions have not lifted the trophy since 2015. Barcelona is eager to make a deeper run this season, and De Jong’s return could provide the spark they need.
“We want to win all the games, the team and me as a coach,” Flick said, acknowledging the high expectations at a club like Barcelona. “I’m very positive we can do that, but we need to improve and be more consistent, especially in the Champions League. It’s a tough competition, and if we need to gain the respect of our opponents again, we’ll work hard on that.”
Flick emphasized the importance of playing entertaining and effective football, something he believes Barcelona is capable of achieving despite their recent struggles. “We work well, train hard, and play good football,” he said. “But we need to show that on the pitch, and results are the best way to prove that. The players know what’s at stake, and we’re all committed to achieving our goals.”
The return of De Jong comes at a crucial time for Barcelona, as they look to bounce back from their loss against Monaco and gain momentum in the group stage. While De Jong may not be ready to start, his presence on the bench will undoubtedly lift the team and offer Flick more tactical flexibility.
As Barcelona prepares to face Young Boys, the focus will be on getting the win and building confidence for the rest of the campaign. With De Jong back in the mix, the team will be hoping to find their rhythm and demonstrate why they remain one of Europe’s elite clubs.
