Flick Sets De Jong Comeback Date as Barcelona's Injury Crisis Eases

Barcelona received a timely double injury boost on Friday as head coach Hansi Flick confirmed that Frenkie de Jong is closing in on his long-awaited return from a knee injury. The 29-year-old Netherlands midfielder is yet to play this season but has returned to training, and Flick revealed the plan is for him to feature in the La Liga clash with Real Betis on October 17. De Jong will miss Saturday's home game against Getafe and the Champions League trip to Galatasaray next week as the club takes a cautious approach. "Our plan is for him to play in the next match against Betis. He's not in pain and can do everything, but he needs more time and we're going to give it to him," Flick told reporters on Friday. There was also good news on goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who missed the last match against Sevilla with a knee problem but has returned to training and is expected to start against Getafe. "From what we saw today, Joan is in great shape and I think he'll be able to start," said Flick. The returns come at a perfect moment for Barcelona, who have won their opening eight matches of the 2026-27 campaign and face a demanding run of league and Champions League fixtures as they defend their domestic form into the autumn.