Pessimism over De Jong’s return for Atletico clash

Pessimism surrounds De Jong's return for Barcelona against Atletico

Midfielder continues recovery and may miss key La Liga clash

BlaugranaNews EditorialMarch 31, 20262 min read

So what

De Jong’s uncertain availability complicates Barcelona’s midfield options and tactical plans ahead of a crucial match.

Ahead of the important La Liga match against Atletico Madrid, FC Barcelona faces significant doubts over Frenkie De Jong’s participation. According to Marca, the midfielder has yet to rejoin full team training as he continues his rehabilitation from a right leg biceps femoris injury suffered on February 26, causing him to miss seven games.

De Jong is unlikely to take part in Thursday’s group training session, and his presence on the pitch for Saturday’s game remains questionable. Head coach Hansi Flick, who gave the team a day off on Wednesday, has limited training to players undergoing recovery and is keen to avoid risking further injury to De Jong, who has already suffered several muscle problems this season.

In contrast, Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde are recovering well and have resumed training with the squad, making their participation in the upcoming match more probable. Flick plans to rely on other midfield options, including Pedri, Bernal, Casadó, Eric Garcia, Fermín, and Olmo, believing these alternatives can cover for De Jong without rushing his comeback.

Barcelona’s training sessions currently involve a reduced squad due to the ongoing international break. As reported by Mundo Deportivo, most players recovering from injuries are training separately while the internationals will gradually reintegrate from Thursday onward. De Jong continues his individual workouts in the gym, indicating a slower return compared to Koundé and Balde, who are closer to full recovery as per Sport.

Therefore, De Jong’s inclusion in the starting lineup at Wanda Metropolitano remains uncertain. His return depends not only on medical progress but also on how he feels physically, with careful management to avoid relapse and ensure his availability for the crucial matches later in the season.

For Barcelona supporters, this means patience is needed this week as the team adapts its midfield setup in De Jong’s absence. Despite the pessimistic outlook, the squad has sufficient depth to perform effectively without him in the immediate upcoming fixtures.