Barcelona highest-earner’s ‘cold’ response when asked about his fitness situation – report

It has been over four months since Frenkie de Jong played for FC Barcelona, having been sidelined with an ankle injury since April 21.

Initially, it was expected that the Netherlands international would be back in a matter of weeks and was even included in the Oranje squad for the UEFA Euro 2024, only for him to withdraw later.

More than four months in, there is still no proper clarity over when he will return and what his exact condition is at the moment.

Recent reports suggest that De Jong could make a comeback after the international break but would need surgery to return to 100% fitness.

The player, for his part, is reluctant to return without being at full fitness but also refuses to undergo surgery, leaving Barça in a quandary.

De Jong’s ‘cold’ response to Enric Masip

Now, according to Victor Malo on Culemania, Barcelona are still unclear when De Jong can play after being out for more than 130 days.

As such, club president Joan Laporta’s close advisor, Enric Masip, who also happens to be a part of the Blaugrana’s sporting structure, tried to speak to the 27-year-old midfielder about his situation recently.

But the report states that Masip received a rather ‘cold’ and ‘evasive’ response from De Jong, who is understood to have told Laporta’s close aide: “I will inform you in a few days.” 

The Netherlands international happens to be Barça’s highest earner this season with a salary of €25.2 million. Adding the transfer amortisation to it takes the total cost to €35.5 million for the club.

It is natural for Barcelona to express concerns regarding his situation, considering the time he has been out and his alleged reluctance to consider the surgery route.

With the number of absentees in the midfield department, Hansi Flick & co. will be hoping to have De Jong back soon, but only time will tell when the Dutchman returns.