Barcelona is reportedly experiencing increasing frustration with midfielder Frenkie de Jong regarding the management of his foot injury. The Dutch international has not shown physical improvement since sustaining the injury, leading to a point of contention between the player and the club’s medical staff.
The club’s medical team has indicated a preference for surgery as a definitive solution for the underlying issue. However, De Jong has opted for a non-invasive approach, which is projected to keep him sidelined for at least four months, with some estimates suggesting a recovery period of up to six months, depending on his response to treatment.
Injury Management and Club Concerns
The ongoing injury situation poses a significant challenge for Hansi Flick’s tactical preparations as he begins his first season leading Barcelona. Reports suggest that a sense of resentment exists within the club concerning De Jong’s priorities over the past year.
There are indications that some within the Camp Nou offices believe the player did not exert his maximum effort during the latter part of the 2025-26 season. His focus was reportedly on being fit for the World Cup with the Netherlands. During his absences, De Jong’s guaranteed starting position faced competition from emerging talents and established players.
The rise of Marc Bernal and the return of Gavi meant that De Jong was no longer seen as the undisputed central figure in the team’s transition from defense to attack. He did not participate in the final two domestic season matches before joining Ronald Koeman’s national squad.
Impact on Squad Dynamics and Transfer Market
The timing of this injury crisis is particularly sensitive for Barcelona, especially given their pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The Spanish international is considered a top priority for the club to strengthen the pivot role in midfield. His potential arrival could significantly alter De Jong’s position within the squad.
Reports suggest that Rodri has already agreed to personal terms with the Catalan club. If Barcelona can manage their Financial Fair Play requirements to secure Rodri, the midfield could face an “overbooking” situation. Rodri’s expected arrival would provide direct competition for De Jong, a level of rivalry not seen in years. The Spain captain is also viewed as a mentor for the younger talent, Marc Bernal.
Meanwhile, Barcelona has also shown interest in Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi. The club is reportedly preparing an initial offer of 10 million euros to acquire the midfielder from Girona FC. However, Real Betis has also entered the race with a higher financial offer, aiming to secure Ounahi for their midfield.
Ounahi has returned to Girona’s pre-season training after an extended break following the World Cup. Speculation continues regarding his future at the Catalan club. He is expected to be a key figure in the transfer window, having impressed during his club campaign and as a starter at the World Cup.
According to one report, Real Madrid has also emerged as a target for Ounahi, with his representatives reportedly sounding out the Spanish club, along with Barcelona and Villarreal. Formal offers for Ounahi are said to be pending. Interest from Ajax, which was previously strong, has reportedly cooled due to the acquisition of Brandt and Girona’s financial demands.
Girona is reportedly in no hurry to sell the player unless their financial demands are met. Despite the expectation that Ounahi will leave Montilivi rather than play in the Second Division, Girona hopes that the high market interest will lead to a mutually beneficial transfer agreement. Ounahi played 24 matches for Girona in La Liga last season, scoring five goals and providing two assists.
Uncertain Future for De Jong
As the new season approaches, there is a general sentiment around the Ciutat Esportiva that this could be Frenkie de Jong’s final season as a Barcelona player. While the club cannot transfer him while he is injured, the reported breakdown in trust regarding his injury management has accelerated discussions about his long-term future.
Sources suggest that if he were fully fit, De Jong might have already been placed on the transfer list alongside other midfielders such as Marc Casado and Tommy Marques, whose departures are described as imminent. The standoff between the player’s preference for conservative treatment and the club’s demand for surgery is expected to define the next six months of his career.
Source: goal.com
