Barcelona captain Frenkie de Jong returns to Barcelona for knee rehab, expected out 3-4 months

Published Jul 26, 06:55 PM UTC

Barcelona captain Frenkie de Jong has returned to Barcelona from Ibiza to focus on recovering from a medial collateral ligament tear in his right knee, sustained during the 2026 World Cup. The Dutch international will not travel with the team for preseason training in England but will undergo conservative treatment and rehabilitation at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. Estimated recovery time is 3 to 4 months, with the primary goal of restoring knee stability to avoid meniscus damage. De Jong previously released a statement defending his commitment to the club amid questions about his injury. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick will not rush his return, and the presence of other high-level midfielders, including the emerging Bernal, reduces pressure for an immediate comeback.