Frenkie de Jong suffered an ankle injury back in April, and his name has been on a long list of indisposed players for whom manager Hansi Flick has had to compensate. There was much intrigue surrounding the details of his injury, specifically, his decision to forego surgery and let his ankle heal naturally.
Supposedly, this decision caused much strain behind the scenes. However, it seems the dust has settled in a pattern favoring the Blaugranes. The 27-year-old is finally back in the squad for the UEFA Champions League tussle against Young Boys, having rejoined training a few weeks back and receiving the medical green light earlier today.
How De Jong’s reinstatement will play out
According to AS, Flick plans to give the Dutchman some minutes during the match against Young Boys. His return to the pitch would also be a weight lifted off Flick’s shoulders which are carrying the burden of a serious lack of depth in the midfield due to Gavi, Marc Bernal, Dani Olmo, and Fermin Lopez all being out on injury.
The veteran’s availability also means a wider array for Hansi Flick who is especially restricted due to Eric Garcia’s suspension. Still, De Jong will not simply be thrust into full action rather he will gradually build back up to a full 90 minutes worth of playtime. The idea seems to be to bring him on in the last 10-20 minutes of the game tonight and test out the waters.
Flick stated, “It’s great news to have Frenkie in the team, whether it’s five minutes or ten minutes. It’s very important for us.” conveying that however short, his presence on the pitch would be a considerable win for him and the team.
It is safe to assume that De Jong must be thrilled with his return having recently admitted that his injury took a toll on him beyond physicality, saying it was a “mentally tough process“
All is set for the probable return of Frenkie de Jong who will also don the captain’s armband with both Ter Stegan and Araujo injured, meaning it will be a big night for the Dutchman, one that will hopefully end with a victory.
