Barcelona midfielder could resume full training in 2-3 weeks after taking key step forward in recovery

Barcelona midfielder could resume full training in 2-3 weeks after taking key step forward in recovery The international break has left FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick with only a small group of players available at the Ciutat Esportiva. Indeed, only six first-team players trained today at the club facilities, while the manager himself was unavailable as he had to attend the RFEF annual coaches’ summit in Las Rozas. But there could soon be another addition to the training group. De Jong makes important progress Indeed, according to SPORT , Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has taken a major step forward in his recovery as he has started working with the ball and has felt a significant improvement in recent days. The midfielder is currently training individually on the pitch at moderate intensity and is pleased with how his recovery is progressing. De Jong has taken an important step forward in recovery. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) De Jong has been sidelined since suffering a tear to the medial collateral ligament in his right knee during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Surgery was initially considered as one possible option, but Barcelona ultimately decided to follow a conservative treatment programme at the player’s insistence . The discomfort is starting to disappear For several weeks, De Jong worked without a ball and concentrated mainly on exercises and straight-line running. The Dutchman was still experiencing discomfort when making lateral movements a few weeks ago, particularly because of the ligament injury. However, the situation has now improved considerably. De Jong is back on the pitch with the ball at his feet and is gradually increasing his workload, although there is still some way to go before he can return to full training with the rest of the squad. De Jong opted not to undergo surgery. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) No rush over his return As far as Barcelona are concerned, they are in no hurry to bring De Jong back. The midfielder is still expected to need around another two or three weeks before he can rejoin group training. Once the international break is over, the coaching and medical staff will reassess his condition and establish a more precise timetable for his return to training and, eventually, competitive action. The recovery process is therefore not yet complete, but the latest development is an important one.