Just in: Barcelona captain out for at least one month with hamstring injury

In a bitter blow, Javi Miguel of AS reports that Barcelona midfielder and captain Frenkie de Jong is set for an extended spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

The Netherlands international could be staring at a period of at least one month out of action following the injury setback.

What happened?

With Barcelona starting preparations for the weekend La Liga game against Villarreal, De Jong finished the last training session with physical issues.

The Dutch midfielder is undergoing tests to confirm the nature and the extent of the injury, but according to sources close to the situation, it could be a muscle tear, which could keep him out for four weeks.

If the initial diagnosis is confirmed, De Jong could miss up to seven matches across all competitions.

De Jong out with hamstring injury. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Indeed, he would sit out of the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg vs Atletico Madrid, the Champions League Round of 16 tie against either PSG or Newcastle United, and La Liga matches versus Villarreal, Athletic Club, Sevilla and Rayo Vallecano

In addition, De Jong will also miss the upcoming international break with the Netherlands.

The injury comes at a particularly frustrating moment for Hansi Flick and Barcelona.

For the first time in weeks, the manager had almost a fully fit squad available at his disposal. De Jong’s absence leaves a significant gap in midfield just as Pedri had returned to action.

With Frenkie out, Flick will have to rely on players like Marc Bernal, Marc Casado, or even Eric García to partner Pedri in midfield.