De Jong faces risk of losing place at Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong is nearing a return to FC Barcelona after the international break, having entered the final stage of recovery from a tear of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee. He could return to team training by the end of October.

Spanish newspaper "Sport" reports that Frenkie de Jong's return comes at a time when the Dutch midfielder is no longer a priority for Hans Flick and the sporting management.

FC Barcelona have moved quickly after Frenkie de Jong's injury, signing Rodri to be a key player in his position. Meanwhile, Marc Bernal has the club's confidence and will receive minutes throughout the season. Additionally, the congestion in midfield complicates the Dutchman's situation, with Fermín López, Olmo, and Gavi all ahead of him in the pecking order.

Frenkie de Jong was a key player for Flick during past seasons, despite the injuries he suffered. He renewed his contract with FC Barcelona until 2029 after choosing to stay with the club, but his current situation has changed, especially since his salary is high and the contract was signed when he was an indispensable key player.

The source also pointed out Barcelona's ongoing anger over Frenkie de Jong's knee injury during the World Cup, due to the belief that the club could have handled the situation more cautiously. Despite the player's desire to continue, his contractual situation also makes him an asset that the club can leverage to generate revenue.

Frenkie de Jong will have to fight for his place after returning, and if he doesn't get enough minutes, his outlook on his future may change. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining his role and what may happen in January.