Barcelona captain set for crucial medical test on Friday amid growing concerns

Barcelona captain set for crucial medical test on Friday amid growing concerns Barcelona are expected to gain a clearer picture of Frenkie de Jong’s injury on Friday, when the Dutch midfielder undergoes a decisive medical assessment on his right knee, reports MARCA . Concern around the midfielder has grown since he reported to the club’s training facilities on Monday despite still being on holiday following the World Cup. Initial examinations revealed a significant issue with his knee, raising fears that he could be sidelined for at least four months. Final tests to determine recovery timeline The first evaluation was not enough to establish the full extent of the injury, which is why Barcelona chose not to release an official medical statement. Friday’s tests should provide a definitive diagnosis and allow the club’s medical staff to estimate how long De Jong is likely to be unavailable. Final medical tests tomorrow. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) Whether Barcelona immediately publish the findings will ultimately depend on the player’s approval, as medical information can only be released with his consent. Ligament damage feared The main concern is that De Jong may have suffered ligament damage in his right knee. The midfielder had already been struggling with discomfort during the World Cup, where he played several matches wearing heavy protection on the affected knee. He also received injections before the Netherlands’ final two games, a decision that may have worsened the injury. De Jong likely out for at least four months. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images) As already reported , Barcelona are furious with Ronald Koeman and the Netherlands national team over how they handled the 29-year-old midfielder’s condition. Barcelona unlikely to change transfer plans The outcome of Friday’s examination will determine when De Jong can begin his recovery and provide a more accurate timetable for his return. For now, the expectation inside the club remains that he could miss around four months of action. Despite losing one of Hansi Flick’s key midfielders, Barcelona are not planning to alter their transfer strategy . Marc Casado is still expected to leave during the summer window, while the club has no intention of signing another midfielder as a replacement. It could open the doors for academy prospects like Tommy Marques or Guille Fernandez to gain prominence .