The first international break of the season brought mixed fortunes for FC Barcelona. While some players shined — such as Pedri and Ferran Torres, who both scored in Spain’s 6-0 win over Turkey — others were not as lucky. The most worrying case is that of Frenkie de Jong, who was forced to leave the Netherlands camp due to injury.

What injury did Frenkie de Jong suffer?

Called up by Ronald Koeman for matches against Lithuania (3-2) and Malta (September 9), the midfielder withdrew last Friday after feeling muscle discomfort. Following medical tests, Barcelona confirmed on Monday that he has suffered a minor injury to the external obturator muscle in his right leg.

The club did not provide a specific recovery timeline, only stating that it will depend on the player’s progress.

When could he return?

According to Mundo Deportivo, Hansi Flick hopes to have De Jong back within ten days, which could allow him to feature in Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Newcastle. In the meantime, the Dutchman did not train with the group on Monday at the Ciutat Esportiva and has been ruled out of the upcoming LaLiga EA Sports clash against Valencia on Sunday.

More setbacks for Flick, but also new opportunities

De Jong is not the only absentee for the Catalan giants. Alejandro Baldé remains sidelined with muscle problems, while Gavi continues his recovery from a long-term knee injury. These setbacks represent a headache for Flick, though they could also open the door for youngsters such as Gerard Martín, who may reinforce the defense, and Marc Casadó, a candidate to take on a key role in midfield.

With the pressure of staying competitive in LaLiga and just days away from their return to the Champions League, Barcelona faces a crucial stretch where Flick will need to maximize his squad despite these significant absences.