de Jong has returned to full team training after spending more than three months recovering from a right medial collateral ligament injury and could be an option for Saturday's clash against Betis, according to Marca.
Analysis:de Jong has taken another significant step toward his return after suffering a serious knee injury during the Club World Cup and undergoing conservative treatment rather than surgery. The Dutch midfielder recently resumed partial training following a lengthy absence and has now rejoined his teammates in full sessions, putting him in contention for his first appearance of the season. However, his situation in Barcelona's midfield has changed considerably, with summer signing Rodri establishing himself alongside Pedri in the starting double pivot. Gavi and Marc Bernal also provide competition for minutes, meaning de Jong could initially be limited to a rotational role as he rebuilds his match fitness. Reports also suggest that manager Hansi Flick is trying de Jong in a central defender role in team training which could lead to a change of role for the former midfielder.
