Frenkie de Jong: no training three days before the Clásico against Real Madrid

Fútbol Club Barcelona is once again looking at its infirmary with concern. Just when it seemed that the loss of players could begin to ease, a new alert is triggered a few days before the Clásico against Real Madrid, scheduled for this Sunday, October 26 at 4:15 p.m. at the Santiago Bernabéu.

However, Frenkie de Jong has not trained with the group this Thursday due to indisposition, and his presence in the big match is in doubt. The Dutch midfielder, a key player for Hansi Flick in the Barça midfield, had recently returned after an injury.

This new setback once again jeopardizes his availability. Barça is being cautious, but the possibility that he won't be ready for the match against Madrid would be a major blow to the German coach's tactical planning.

Frenkie de Jong: A noticeable absence in Barça's engine room

Frenkie de Jong represents balance, judgment, and hierarchy in the Barça midfield. His role is so crucial that Flick does not have a natural replacement with the same profile. If he ultimately cannot play, the coaching staff would be forced to turn to Marc Casadó as a possible starter at the Bernabéu, alongside Pedri and Fermín López. A guaranteed but atypical lineup considering the context and the demands of the match.

The Dutchman's absence would add to an injured list that already includes Ter Stegen, Joan García, Gavi, Lewandowski, Christensen and Dani Olmo. In addition, Hansi Flick will not be able to sit on the bench due to suspension, which further aggravates the Barça outlook ahead of the Clásico.

A virus in the Barça dressing room?

In recent days, Christensen has also been sidelined due to an intestinal problem. The coincidence with Frenkie de Jong's indisposition has aroused suspicion within the locker room about a possible viral condition that could be affecting several players. Although the club has not issued any official statement in this regard, they remain attentive to the evolution of both.

Frenkie de Jong signed his renewal with Barça until 2029 just a week ago, reinforcing the present and future project in the midfield. During the signing ceremony, the Dutchman highlighted his good relationship with Christensen, another of the affected players. A situation that, if the absence of both is confirmed, would leave the team's backbone very diminished in a decisive match.