Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong faces months‑long knee injury

Frenkie de Jong returned to FC Barcelona for pre‑season medical tests after the 2026 World Cup, where he played with a painful right‑knee injury. Early examinations suggest a serious ligament problem that could keep him out for four to six months, potentially sidelining him until November. The club has expressed strong anger toward the Dutch national team and coach Ronald Koeman, alleging the player was used in the tournament despite the injury, which may have worsened his condition. Barcelona is awaiting a definitive MRI diagnosis, while also preparing for the financial impact; under FIFA’s Club Protection Programme the club is set to receive roughly €2 million in compensation starting 28 July if the injury is confirmed as sustained during international duty. The prolonged absence threatens Barcelona’s midfield balance, preseason preparations and possible transfer market plans, and adds pressure on the club’s medical and managerial staff as they navigate the player’s recovery.