Barcelona superstar will not travel to the US, could miss season opener vs Valencia | OneFootball

Even with a new coaching staff and a squad overhaul taking precedence, FC Barcelona are still plagued by ongoing injury problems.

Ronald Araujo and Ansu Fati are set to miss the beginning of the season, while Pedri is projected to recover just in time for the La Liga opener. Gavi, who is recovering from an injury last season, is making good progress but is also expected to return later in the year.

Now, it seems that another key player, Frenkie de Jong, may also be sidelined for the foreseeable future with his ankle sprain recovery showing very little sign of progress.

Frenkie ruled out of pre-season tour and inclusion in La Liga under threat

Although it was suggested he might travel despite his lack of fitness, a subsequent meeting confirmed that he would not make the trip.

Indeed, according to AS, club officials have decided that Frenkie de Jong should continue his rehabilitation in Barcelona rather than join the US tour, following an assessment of his right ankle.

Frenkie de Jong’s injury has become a matter of concern. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

In fact, as of now, Barcelona cannot guarantee De Jong’s participation in the opening match against Valencia, which takes place on the 17th of August.

The midfielder’s prolonged absence is raising concerns about a possible chronic injury, particularly since he injured the same ankle three times last season and has already missed several months following his most recent blow.

Moreover, the 27-year-old midfielder’s absence complicates Hansi Flick’s plans and diminishes De Jong’s market value. With his salary increasing significantly this season, the option of selling him this summer is becoming less viable.

In any case, the club is emphasising utmost caution in Frenkie’s recovery process and ensuring he is not rushed back to the pitch, especially in light of Ronald Koeman’s accusations last season that they had done so.