Barcelona confident that injured midfielder will return for Copa del Rey Clasico

In a Clasico that boasted some of football’s greatest midfielders on the field, Frenkie de Jong was by far the most effective and graceful of them all last night. The Dutchman delivered a sublime performance at Spotify Camp Nou that involved five chances created, 100 touches and defensive brilliance.

Immediately after the big result, however, news of an injury sustained by the former Ajax Amsterdam player has come to light. The midfielder will thus miss The Oranjes’ qualifiers and is expected to be out for at least two weeks.

According to reports from AS, there is maximum confidence at the Barcelona offices that De jong will be for the Catalans’ Copa del Rey fixture on April 5th against Real Madrid.

Xavi’s men have a 1-0 lead heading into the home game of the two-legged tie. Riding on the high of three successive Clasico wins, the Blaugranas will be optimistic about their chances of eliminating Los Blancos and securing a place in the final.

The hosts are expected to have a completely fit squad on the night with both Pedri Gonzalez and Ousmane Dembele slated to return in time. The two players injured last night, Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong are also expected to be present, giving Barcelona the upper hand.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed a special campaign this term under Xavi Hernandez and bounced back from the fringe to a spot of central importance. He is now a regular starter under the Spanish tactician in the four-midfielder setup.

He has made 24 league appearances for the Blaugranas so far, scoring two goals and providing one assist in the process. Further, he averages 1.2 key passes and over seven defensive actions per game while creating four big chances in the process.