Xavi: De Jong aims to return to training after break

Xavi Hernández, the new Netherlands coach and former FC Barcelona manager, gave an update on Frenkie de Jong before his debut on the bench against Germany (20.45), as Mundo Deportivo reports.

The coach said De Jong’s intention is to get back to training after the league break. The message matches Mundo Deportivo’s piece from September 6, which stated the midfielder was expected to be part of the group again starting October 8, when international players are scheduled to return to the Barcelona squad.

The key is how he feels

Speaking on TV3, Xavi pointed to the “key moment” after the break: “I think the key will be after this break,” to see whether he can join the group and return “100%.” He also said he spoke with the player, who is “happy” with how the recovery is going and has very good feelings.

De Jong has been out since suffering a tear of the internal lateral ligament in his right knee, an injury sustained at the World Cup. Mundo Deportivo adds that surgery was ruled out and the club chose a conservative treatment plan based on his progress, which is still ongoing. The outlet also notes the player has been sidelined for two months.

For now, the return will depend on whether he can complete the next steps in training without further problems with the injured ligament—precisely where Xavi places the decisive check after the break.