Barcelona have officially confirmed that Frenkie de Jong has suffered a tear of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee, validating fears that the Dutch midfielder faces a significant spell on the sidelines.
In a medical statement released by the club, Barcelona announced that De Jong will undergo conservative treatment over the coming weeks while doctors closely monitor his recovery.
At this stage, surgery has not been scheduled, although the player’s progress will determine whether an operation eventually becomes necessary.
“The tests carried out on first-team player Frenkie de Jong have determined that he is suffering from a tear in the medial collateral ligament of his right knee,” the club statement read.
“It has been agreed that the player will continue under medical treatment and monitoring, pending his progress over the coming weeks.”
COMUNICADO MÉDICO
Las pruebas realizadas al jugador del primer equipo Frenkie de Jong han determinado que sufre una rotura del ligamento lateral interno de la rodilla derecha. Se ha acordado que el jugador continúe bajo tratamiento y seguimiento médico, pendiente de su evolución… pic.twitter.com/4b7aBvyK5Q
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) July 23, 2026
Lengthy time out
The club did not provide an estimated return date, stating only that De Jong will remain under medical supervision throughout his rehabilitation.
While Barcelona avoided giving a timetable, the injury represents a major setback ahead of the new season.
However, according to journalist Javi Miguel of AS, De Jong could be for as long as five to six months, meaning he could miss the entire first half of the 2026/27 season, in what comes as a huge blow for Barcelona.
Injury during the World Cup
De Jong had been playing through discomfort in his knee during the World Cup before the injury ultimately deteriorated.
He underwent medical examinations at Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper last Friday, where the full extent of the damage was confirmed.
The midfielder returned to the training complex again on Wednesday to finalise the club’s medical report before its public release.
Frenkie de Jong of Netherlands
De Jong was injured during the World Cup. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Flick must find solutions
De Jong’s absence leaves Hansi Flick with an important gap to fill in midfield as Barcelona prepare for the start of the season.
The German coach will now look to the rest of his midfield options to compensate for the loss of one of the team’s key players.
The upcoming preseason friendlies are expected to provide an opportunity to assess different combinations and determine which younger players are ready to contribute alongside the senior squad during De Jong’s recovery.
Barcelona will continue to monitor the Dutch international’s condition in the coming weeks before making any decision on whether surgery becomes necessary.