De Jong Needs to Regain Fitness Gradually; Koeman Respects Barcelona’s Plan: Does Not Haste to Call Him Up

In the Champions League match between Barcelona and Young Boys, De Jong made his comeback after 163 days. However, in the new training roster of the Netherlands national team, Koeman did not call up De Jong. Koeman respects Barcelona’s plan for De Jong’s usage, believing that he needs to recover gradually rather than being rushed back into full action.

During Barcelona’s home game against Young Boys, which ended in a 5-0 victory, De Jong came on as a substitute in the final stages of the match. This was his first appearance after being out injured for five months. The injury to his right ankle had caused him to miss this summer’s European Championship. After opting for conservative treatment, De Jong’s return has added depth to Barcelona’s squad.

According to Barcelona head coach Flick’s plan, De Jong’s recovery will be a gradual process. He is expected to play again in the La Liga match against Alaves over the weekend. Following that, with the international break approaching, De Jong will have the opportunity to adjust and continue his recovery.

Netherlands head coach Koeman did not include De Jong in the latest training roster, following discussions with Barcelona. Koeman respects the decision of Barcelona’s medical team, agreeing that De Jong needs to recover step by step.

However, after the international break, Barcelona faces Sevilla in La Liga, Bayern Munich in the Champions League, and Real Madrid in El Clasico. At that time, there is a possibility that De Jong might enter the starting lineup.