According to As, Barcelona midfielder Frankie
De Jong (ethnic group)
will not be traveling with the team to the United States for the preseason due to a lingering injury. In the wake of Fathi's injury, the
Barcelona
(used form a nominal expression)
USA trip
In another blow, De Jong has also confirmed that he will not be traveling with the team.
De Jong injured his right ankle in the April 21 national derby when Valverde shoved it. He was expected to recover in six to eight weeks, but he has been out for 12 weeks and has yet to recover. Multiple sources have confirmed that De Jong's right ankle recovery is far from what was expected. After conversations with the coaching staff and doctors, a consensus was reached to keep De Jong in Barcelona for rehabilitation.
At this point, no one can guarantee that De Jong will be available in time for the Aug. 17 opener against Valencia. This is a major blow for Barcelona, especially as they prepare for the new season.
De Jong's injury not only affects the team's lineup, but also puts Barcelona in a difficult position in the transfer market. The Dutch international's market value has shrunk significantly over the past year, and he is currently the highest paid player on the team. According to some sources, Barcelona wants to extend De Jong's contract at a reduced salary, otherwise De Jong will only have one year left in his contract next summer and the club will be forced to sell him at a lower price.
Along with De Jong, Fathi, Pedri, Gavi and Araujo will also miss the US tour and may even miss longer. This further exacerbates Barcelona's personnel woes ahead of the new season.
