Barcelona midfielder set to return to starting lineup against Inter Milan – report

Barcelona have endured a difficult period lately, with poor performances in the Champions League coupled with an apparent injury crisis that has put Xavi in a state of bother.

However, there is good news coming through, with Frenkie de Jong likely to return to feature in the starting eleven for the midweek contest against Inter Milan. This has been reported by Javi Miguel, who has given a comprehensive update on Barcelona’s team sheet ahead of this fixture.

De Jong was one of many Barcelona players that picked up injuries during the international break. The midfielder subsequently missed a few matches before returning to the pitch against Celta Vigo at the weekend. He featured as a sub for 27 minutes as Barça secured a narrow victory.

The Dutchman is now poised to start against Inter Milan, in what could prove to be the most important game for Barcelona so far this season.

De Jong is likely to feature in a four-man midfield setup by Xavi, which will focus on gaining control in the middle of the park, especially against Inter’s second line of press. The midfielder will be accompanied by Pedri, Gavi and Sergio Busquets.

Pedri and Gavi are set to operate as interior midfielders, offering creativity and navigation in half-spaces. De Jong, too, should play a vital role in the build-up, while his ability to make darting runs into the box could give Barça an upper hand during the approach play.

However, having played very little football over the past week or so, the onus will be on de Jong to get back to his best and produce the goods in the middle of the park. His performance could go a long way in dictating Barcelona’s fate in this game.