Another FC Barcelona player, Frenkie de Jong, was in action in the World Cup 2026 last night, as The Netherlands, headed by the former Blaugrana player and manager Ronald Koeman, faced Sweden in their second group stage game. The game ended in a 5-1 win for the Orange side.
The Barcelona midfielder faced some physical concerns ahead of this game, with [Koeman himself confirming that the player was suffering from a discomfort in his lower abdomen](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/after-raphinha-another-barcelona-star-emerges-as-injury-concern-during-world-cup/). Although not very serious, this issue still put the player’s participation in this game in doubt.
Still, the Dutch coach decided not to take any risks, with his side’s survival in the World Cup on the line, and played the midfielder, who lasted in a highly demanding game for 60 minutes.
As [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20260620/1004197571/jong-jugo-molestias-dejo-mensaje-calma-confianza-estare.html) has reported, Frenkie also talked to ESPN after the game, and gave a message mixed with caution and optimism about his physical condition:
**“Honestly, I still feel pain from the collision, but today it was manageable. We’ll see how it reacts, but I’m confident that I’ll be okay… I still feel some pain, but I had to play today. We’ll see how my body responds, but I’m optimistic.”**
Hopefully, he will only get better while The Netherlands get a break before playing third, and last, group stage match, against Tunisia. Koeman might even decide not to start him in that game, keeping in view his team’s improved chances of making it to the Round of 16 following the win against Sweden.
Meanwhile, Barcelona would be keeping a close eye on this situation as well. Even though he is not an absolute starter for Hansi Flick, Frenkie de Jong is still one of the most important midfielders for the Blaugrana team.
He has been suffering from physical problems lately, and only in the last season, got to the sidelines with three different injuries, missing a total of 15 games, for club and country. Barcelona would definitely be hoping there are no new injuries in store for him, especially with Raphinha’s situation also being a cause of concern, and the Dutchman will return to the club in his best physical shape.