In the last few days, two FC Barcelona midfielders have taken a big leap in their recovery processes, as both Gavi and Frenkie de Jong returned to training with the group.
Recovering from his ACL tear, Gavi will still need some time to get back to full fitness, but Frenkie de Jong seems to be nearing his return to the pitch. With the way his recovery is going, he should be the player next in line to leave the infirmary.
However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Hansi Flick’s staff forecasts that the midfielder might still need some days before returning to action. Thus, he is not expected to receive the green light for the two matches scheduled in the next week, against Getafe and Osasuna.
Thus, the Barcelona coach and his staff are planning to bring the midfielder back to the pitch in the matches against Young Boys and Alaves, on October 1 and 6 respectively, in the last week before the October international break.
The exact day for Frenkie’s return has still not been decided. The Dutchman still has to return to full training with his teammates and participate in small matches to test his foot in a somewhat competitive playing atmosphere. Thus, he looks more likely to return on October 6th in the match against Alaves.
Following that match, there will be a two-week October international break. As he is highly unlikely to be called up by Ronald Koeman for the Dutch side, he will get another fortnight to recover from his injury and thus strengthen his chances of being a starter for Barcelona after the break.
This post-break period will be quite important for Blaugranes as they have some difficult matches scheduled against Sevilla, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid consecutively. Flick will be hoping to have Frenkie back at his best for these matches.
