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Barca Universal

·23 July 2026

Barca Universal

·23 July 2026

Barcelona have officially confirmed that Frenkie de Jong has suffered a tear of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee, confirming fears that the Dutch midfielder is facing a lengthy spell out of action.

In a medical update issued by the club, Barcelona said that De Jong will receive conservative treatment over the next few weeks while doctors keep a close watch on his recovery.

At this point, surgery has not been planned, though the player’s progress will decide whether an operation eventually becomes required.

“The tests carried out on first-team player Frenkie de Jong have determined that he is suffering from a tear in the medial collateral ligament of his right knee,” the club statement said.

“It has been agreed that the player will continue under medical treatment and monitoring, pending his progress over the coming weeks.”

The club did not give any estimated return date, saying only that De Jong will stay under medical supervision throughout his rehabilitation.

Although Barcelona did not put a timeline on the injury, it is a major setback ahead of the new season.

However, according to journalist Javi Miguel of AS, De Jong could be out for as long as five to six months, which would mean he may miss the whole first half of the 2026/27 season, a major blow for Barcelona.

De Jong had been playing with discomfort in his knee during the World Cup before the injury eventually worsened.

He underwent medical tests at Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper last Friday, where the full extent of the damage was confirmed.

The midfielder returned to the training complex again on Wednesday to finalise the club’s medical report before it was made public.

De Jong was injured during the World Cup. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

De Jong’s absence leaves Hansi Flick with an important gap to fill in midfield as Barcelona get ready for the start of the season.

The German coach will now turn to his other midfield options to make up for the loss of one of the team’s key players.

The upcoming pre-season friendlies are expected to give Barcelona a chance to test different combinations and decide which younger players are ready to contribute alongside the senior squad during De Jong’s recovery.

Barcelona will keep monitoring the Dutch international’s condition in the coming weeks before making any decision on whether surgery becomes necessary.

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