Barcelona have been dealt yet another injury blow, as midfielder Frenkie De Jong is set to be sidelined for at least the next month.
The Dutchman picked up the injury in Barcelona’s dramatic comeback victory against Celta Vigo, during which he was replaced by Gavi, and is now set to be out until at least the end of October.
Barcelona have a busy month ahead in both La Liga and the Champions League, and losing De Jong will be significant.
ESPN have now reported that it is unlikely that De Jong recovers in time to face Real Madrid at Montjuic on October 28th, and this could be a game-changing injury.
With Pedri also currently absent, the strength of Xavi’s squad will now be fully tested over the next month.
How can Xavi replace De Jong?
De Jong has had an excellent campaign so far, and Ilkay Gundogan and Gavi will have to be at their best to replicate his output.
The 26-year-old has proven invaluable in the middle of the park as a deep playmaker. Xavi will now likely line up with Oriol Romeu, Gundogan and Gavi behind the front three until Pedri returns from his own injury, but if one of these three were to also get injured, then Barcelona may find themselves in trouble.
The upcoming El Clasico will be a huge test for both sides at the top of La Liga, and Xavi may have to face a potentially title-deciding game without one of his best players.
Barcelona have confirmed that De Jong suffered an ankle injury, with the player leaving the Celta Vigo game on crutches, and there is currently no set return date.
De Jong has started in every La Liga game this season, and chipped in with a vital goal in the 4-3 victory over Villarreal a few weeks ago.