Barcelona set for huge boost as star midfielder could return to training on Monday – report

Barcelona set for huge boost as star midfielder could return to training on Monday – report Frenkie de Jong has been by far the biggest absentee for Barcelona this season, having picked up a knock in the summer. Although his initial recovery was slow, the midfielder has some made giant strides during the international break and it was even reported that he was expected to return to training with teammates soon. Having not played a single minute so far, Barcelona are counting on de Jong to return soon and add more strength in the midfield. De Jong could return to training on Monday De Jong could soon return to the field. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) According to Diario SPORT , de Jong could be integrated into group training when Barcelona resume on Monday, October 5. The Dutchman, who suffered a rupture of the internal knee ligament during the World Cup with the Netherlands, has been working hard throughout the break. He took to social media on Saturday to share several photographs of himself training alone at the Ciutat Esportiva, accompanied by a mountaineer emoji, signalling the uphill climb back to fitness. His post was quickly flooded with support from teammates, with the likes of Lamine Yamal, Karim Adeyemi, Gerard Martin, Pau Cubarsi and Dani Olmo all celebrating his impending return. The midfielder, who opted for conservative treatment rather than surgery, has not worn shorts since June 30, underlining just how long his absence has been. Why de Jong’s return matters De Jong could play a vital role for Barcelona during the remainder of the season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) De Jong’s comeback would be a timely and significant boost for Hansi Flick, particularly given Barcelona’s current situation in midfield and defence. While Barcelona have coped admirably without him, the Dutchman’s quality on the ball, composure and ability to dictate tempo would add a different dimension to Flick’s engine room. With Marc Casado having departed in the summer, de Jong’s return provides much-needed depth alongside Pedri and the gradually integrating Rodri. That said, Barcelona will not rush him, with reports suggesting he may not be ready in time for the upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid. De Jong is not the only player on the mend either. Flick currently has four injured, including Joan Garcia, Roony Bardghji and Andreas Christensen, though the goalkeeper is closest to returning. Raphinha and Eric Garcia, who left their respective national team camps, will also report back on Monday, though their issues are not considered serious.