Barcelona Expect Frenkie de Jong to Return for Champions League Showdown

Barcelona is grappling with a significant midfield crisis as they prepare for their Champions League quarter-final clash against Atletico Madrid. For the upcoming first leg at Spotify Camp Nou, only Pedri and Marc Casado are deemed fully fit, while Gavi is not yet prepared for a starting role.

This challenge is compounded by Marc Bernal's ankle injury, sustained during the weekend's victory over Los Colchoneros at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. Although his recovery is anticipated within 10 days, this timeline puts his availability for both legs of the crucial Atleti tie in doubt, a potentially severe setback given the young talent's recent impressive performances.

Currently, Bernal joins Frenkie de Jong on the injury list, though there's positive news regarding the Dutch midfielder, who is nearing his comeback. Coach Hansi Flick has confirmed De Jong will rejoin training this week, and reports from MD suggest the club aims for him to receive medical clearance in time for Saturday's local derby against Espanyol.

De Jong suffered a hamstring tear during a late February training session, with an initial recovery period estimated at 5-6 weeks. This timeline originally offered only a slim possibility of his involvement in the upcoming Atleti tie. However, if he successfully navigates the match against Espanyol, he would likely be available for the second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

De Jong to Battle for Starting Role

De Jong's season has been somewhat inconsistent, marked by fluctuating periods of strong and weaker form. Despite this, he has consistently been a key starter under Flick. However, with Bernal's recent impactful performances and Gavi's impending full return to fitness, De Jong is expected to face considerable competition to re-establish a regular place in the starting lineup.

For the immediate future, De Jong's primary focus remains his return to competitive action this weekend, providing a much-needed boost to Barcelona's injury-ridden squad.