Frenkie de Jong returns to Barcelona with injury after World Cup

Frenkie de Jong, Barcelona's captain, has returned to Catalonia with a physical setback following the FIFA World Cup. Initial reports indicate he may face a lengthy absence, possibly up to four months, pending test results scheduled for the coming days. De Jong's injury history is concerning, as he has struggled with multiple injuries since Hansi Flick took over as coach, missing significant time during previous seasons. He averaged only eight missed games per season in his first five seasons at the club, but that number has increased recently. There are growing concerns about his fitness, particularly in light of his participation in the World Cup with reported painkiller use.

• 4:40 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona midfielder’s worrying injury record under Hansi Flick after fresh setback