Flick says De Jong is set to return for Barcelona at Real Betis
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed Frenkie de Jong is available for Saturday's La Liga match at Real Betis and could play some minutes. De Jong has been sidelined for about two months with a knee injury suffered at the World Cup. Flick praised the midfielder's quality and indicated he is being viewed primarily as a midfield option rather than a center-back.
Hansi Flick said Frenkie de Jong is in Barcelona’s squad for Saturday’s league trip to Real Betis and may get playing time. The midfielder has been out roughly two months after hurting his knee at the World Cup.
Flick indicated De Jong is viewed mainly as a midfield choice, not a center-back. His return adds depth to a squad where Rodri’s arrival has reshaped the middle, raising the possibility of a De Jong-Rodri-Pedri combination.
De Jong’s possible return may lift Barcelona supporters and La Liga viewers, who could see a higher-profile midfield in a key fixture. It may also affect Real Betis’s preparation and the match’s entertainment value. For De Jong, getting minutes could support his recovery and confidence, while his availability may influence squad rotation and media attention around Barcelona’s season.