Jong is highlighting both his recovery and his attachment to Barcelona as the team prepares to resume training on Monday after nine days off. The injured players continued their rehabilitation during the break. Frenkie de Jong was among those who kept working and is nearing a return to the pitch.
The Dutch midfielder is in the final stage of recovering from a tear to the medial ligament in his knee, sustained last summer during the World Cup. Aged 29, the Netherlands international posted images showing him running, working with the ball and changing pace, as well as training in the gym.
De Jong followed conservative treatment and declined surgery. He intends to rejoin group sessions gradually from next week, when Barcelona returns to training after Flick gave the non-international players time off. His return to training and then matches is expected to be cautious: injuries have troubled him in recent seasons and, after many months out, the club does not want to risk a relapse.
In a reported statement, De Jong said: « They are damaging my image ».
GeneralThe Catalan club is hoping to shift the defender’s position: he wants to stay and believes he can earn more playing time. Balde has made 169 appearances for Barcelona and is under contract until June 2028.
GeneralNéstor Lorenzo said Colombia were still “under construction” after losing to Paraguay. The coach urged patience and acknowledged his team’s shortcomings over the 90 minutes.
GeneralAs competition resumes against Villarreal, Rüdiger is the only available centre-back for Mourinho. The coach is exploring several options, from positional switches to young academy players.
GeneralAtlético reached the break in second place in LaLiga, having moved ahead of Real Madrid in the derby and sitting five points behind Barcelona. The coming fixtures, particularly away from home, could prove decisive in the race for first place.
Comments