Frenkie de Jong has emerged as Barcelona’s most significant absentee heading into the new season, with the Dutchman sidelined by a knee injury picked up at the World Cup.
The midfielder’s situation has been the subject of much discussion in recent weeks, and de Jong has now spoken out to offer his own account of what happened and how he is coping.
De Jong explains his injury
In an interview with the club’s official media, the Dutchman opened up on the frustration of being ruled out and detailed how the problem arose.
Barcelona fans are desperately awaiting de Jong’s return. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“Let me explain my injury to everyone. I’m suffering and very disappointed. What I love most is playing football, especially for Barcelona and the national team. When I’m injured, I feel very frustrated,” de Jong said.
He went on to describe the incident itself, insisting it was nothing more than misfortune.
“I think it was just bad luck, a pure accident. Someone fell on me during one of our World Cup training sessions and I felt some discomfort in my knee.
“We had tests and everyone in the national team camp told me I could continue playing despite some discomfort, and that the situation wouldn’t get worse. That’s why I kept playing, because playing in a World Cup is a dream for me,” he added.
The midfielder revealed the extent of the problem only became clear upon his return to Barcelona.
“After we were eliminated, I returned to the club for further tests to make sure everything was fine.
“They showed that the injury had become more serious than it had been in the USA. It was a huge shock that nobody expected. Now I have to stop and focus on my recovery,” he added.
Focused on his return
De Jong is the one big absentee for Barcelona heading into the new season. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Despite the setback, de Jong made clear he is doing everything in his power to return as swiftly as possible.
“I’m doing everything possible to return in the best possible condition and as quickly as possible. I eat well, take care of my sleep and adapt my entire day around football,” he said.
The Dutchman also expressed his gratitude for the backing he has received from supporters during a difficult period.
“I really feel the support. I’m going through a difficult moment because I’m injured, but I feel that many culers are supporting me. It makes me very happy,” he said.
It has been reported recently that Barcelona are not too happy with the midfielder for delaying surgery, despite having made no progress with his fitness.
Nevertheless, de Jong paid tribute to the values of the club and its fanbase.
“Barcelona is more than a club. I think many culers show that in every sense. You have to support the team when things aren’t going well too,” he concluded.