Frenkie de Jong faces 3-4 month layoff after World Cup knee scare

Frenkie de Jong is set for a lengthy layoff after Barcelona’s medical staff confirmed the Dutch midfielder aggravated his right knee during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What happened to Frenkie de Jong?

De Jong played the final two matches of the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign despite persistent discomfort in his right knee. He returned to Barcelona’s training base on the opening day of pre-season, where doctors immediately examined the injury. Early scans showed swelling that blocked full diagnostics, but follow-up tests later revealed a more serious issue than initially feared.

And the club dodged a bullet. Doctors ruled out damage to the knee ligaments, sparing De Jong from a far longer absence. He was sent on a short holiday to rest the joint before a final assessment this week.

Why it matters for Frenkie de Jong

The setback threatens to sideline one of Barcelona’s most influential players for the first phase of the new campaign. Sources expect De Jong to miss between three and four months, meaning he’ll likely miss the early fixtures of the season.

Yet the injury isn’t the only concern for Barcelona. The club also plans to move Marc Casado, either on loan or permanently, if the right move materialises in the current window.

What comes next for De Jong and Barcelona?

De Jong will return to the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper this week for a final medical review. He and the medical staff will then agree on a rehabilitation plan and the next treatment steps.

Barcelona won’t rush to sign a replacement despite the loss. Hansi Flick’s side will rely on the midfield options already in the squad while De Jong recovers.

The club’s sporting department is still pushing for Casado’s exit, keeping the midfielder’s future in flux as long as a suitable deal remains available.