Barcelona Suffer Fresh Injury Blow as Frenkie de Jong Joins Growing List of Absentees

Barcelona’s Injury Crisis Deepens Ahead of Crucial Fixtures

The Catalan giants are facing a worrying injury crisis with multiple key players sidelined. The latest setback came when Frenkie de Jong suffered a minor injury while on international duty with the Netherlands. The Dutch midfielder left the field in the closing minutes of their 1-1 draw against Poland, raising concerns for both Barcelona and Oranje supporters.

Returning to Barcelona earlier than expected, De Jong now joins a growing list of injured players at the club. With crucial matches on the horizon, including the Champions League 2025–26 opener against Newcastle United, the timing couldn’t be worse for Hansi Flick’s side.

Barcelona Hit With Four Key Injury Setbacks

Barcelona’s medical room is filling up fast. Alongside De Jong, the club is already dealing with the absence of Alejandro Balde (hamstring injury) and Gavi (long-term knee injury). To make matters worse, young sensation Lamine Yamal also caused a scare during Spain’s international clash, where he appeared to struggle with back pain before being substituted in the 78th minute.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Yamal’s injury isn’t serious, and he will likely continue with the Spanish squad. However, Barcelona fans remain anxious, as the teenager has been a crucial part of Flick’s system this season.

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Why Frenkie de Jong’s Absence Is a Big Blow

De Jong’s importance in Barcelona’s midfield cannot be overstated. As the captain, his ability to control possession, dictate tempo, and provide defensive cover makes him irreplaceable. Without him, Flick may have to rely on Marc Casadó, a promising 21-year-old who impressed last season before being sidelined for two months with a knee injury.

The Dutchman’s absence could severely impact Barcelona’s midfield stability, especially after their disappointing 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano before the international break. With Flick still trying to find consistency in his squad, losing experienced leaders like De Jong adds further pressure.

What This Means for Barcelona’s Upcoming Fixtures

Barcelona have little time to recover before returning to action. Their upcoming schedule includes high-stakes matches in both La Liga and the Champions League. Facing Newcastle United in less than two weeks without key players will test Flick’s tactical adaptability.

The question remains: can Barcelona’s youngsters step up and fill the void left by injured stars, or will Flick’s men struggle to keep pace with their rivals in Spain and Europe?