Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong has admitted that the issues he is having with his ankle are causing him a “bit of mental trauma” as the Netherlands star works his way back to playing football again.
The midfielder has suffered three ankle injuries within the last year causing him to miss a total of 39 matches for club and country so far.
De Jong has been out of action since April with his current ankle problem, which caused him to miss the Netherlands’ run to the semi-finals of EURO 2024 and the impressive start Barcelona have made to the current campaign under Hansi Flick.
The 27-year-old also knows that the other Barca midfielders have been given the chance to impress their new German coach over the last few months, leaving De Jong with a difficult task of returning and working his way back into the Catalan club’s starting 11.
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The Dutch star has now admitted that his ankle issues have caused him a “bit of mental trauma” as he looks to regain confidence in that area of his body.
“Having three injuries to the same ankle caused me a bit of mental trauma,” De Jong has stated via Fabrizio Romano. “I’m gradually regaining my confidence to kick the ball hard and go strong into tackles. I will be back soon.
“It’s very frustrating for a player who breathes football to be out.”
Will Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong be the same player when he returns?
De Jong’s admission will be a worry for Barcelona upon his return as the Dutch star may not be the same player he was if he can’t regain trust in his ankle.
The Catalan outfit have been open to selling the midfielder in recent months with many reports linking the 27-year-old with an exit from the La Liga giants. Barca are still dealing with major financial issues and the midfielder’s sale would be a big help in relieving some pressure.
The Netherlands international has always wanted to remain at Barcelona but recent events could see him depart the Spanish giants during next summer’s transfer window.
