Barcelona eagerly await the return of club football now that the international break is finally coming to an end. No more worries of unwanted injuries while away on international duty as players return to their respective clubs. However, what does indeed now come forth is a challenging fixture list up ahead.
First comes Athletic Bilbao, then Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League, and then the highly anticipated El Clasico.
The clash against Real Madrid is one that holds a special place in the hearts of almost every football fan. Set to take place on the 28th of October, many will surely have the date marked on their calendars.
However, unfortunately for Barcelona, they have a massive list of injuries to worry about. Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Jules Kounde, Frenkie De Jong, Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, and Pedri are all currently in recovery.
Despite this, Barcelona still has faith in the recovery of certain players for the Clasico. Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Alejandro Balde are already considered to be available for selection by then. Raphinha is also showing good progress and has the nod to make it against Los Blancos. Robert Lewandowski continues to show good sensations and could even make it himself.
On the other hand, Jules Kounde is considered to be indefinitely out due to how recent his injury was. The one player that many fans are hoping makes a comeback is, however, Frenkie De Jong. Yet, according to the ever-reliable Helena Condis, the Dutchman will not be able to make it in time for El Clasico.
Frenkie De Jong, 26 years old, is a fundamental piece of Xavi’s Barcelona. Undisputed as a starter, the former Ajax man possesses a grand plethora of qualities. A capable defensive midfielder and an elite offensive outlet, De Jong offers a balance to Barcelona that no other player can.
While his recovery continues, the player was initially showcasing good sensations. Despite these positive signs, it appears that FC Barcelona do not want to take any risks.
Unsurprisingly, that would be the sensible thing to do. With other stars arriving back into the team, risking De Jong in a way that could jeopardize the long season ahead would be a massively detrimental move from Barça’s perspective.
