Injury woes clash with Rodri’s €76.5m arrival at Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong’s return to training at FC Barcelona has been anything but smooth, while the club celebrated the €76.5 million arrival of Rodri, creating a stark contrast between the Dutch midfielder’s lingering knee pain and the new signing’s fanfare.

De Jong suffered a knee injury during the WK after a collision in training with fellow Dutch international Quinten Timber, which also gave him a concussion. Despite the knock, the Olympique Marseille midfielder continued to play, but the injury proved more serious than initially thought.

When De Jong travelled back to Catalonië, Barcelona’s staff discovered the knee problem was worse than expected, meaning he will miss the opening weeks of the season. Rumours suggest coach Hansi Flick is displeased, and the club’s frustration over his previous season’s recovery approach remains.

Rodri, the defensive midfielder who won the World Cup with Spain in the United States, was signed from Manchester City for €76.5 million including bonuses. He received a warm reception at the pre‑season team presentation, a stark contrast to the “flute concert” De Jong endured.

SPORT reported on Tuesday that De Jong returned to the training ground but was limited to individual work. “He is not yet able to train with the group. The Dutchman did individual exercises to see how his leg reacts. The intention was to test him, but he still has considerable pain,” the outlet wrote.

Barça and the player have agreed to proceed cautiously, avoiding any rush in his rehabilitation. The club’s lingering frustration over his past injury management adds uncertainty to his future role, while Rodri’s integration proceeds without delay.