Frenkie de Jong returns to full training with Barcelona squad

Frenkie de Jong took a major step forward in his recovery on Tuesday by joining first-team training at Barcelona. The Dutch midfielder has been out of action since the 2026 World Cup due to a medial collateral ligament injury in his right knee, and his return to group work is the most encouraging news to come out of the international break for Hansi Flick's side.

• De Jong trained with the group for the first time since the 2026 World Cup
• The midfielder chose a conservative treatment plan and avoided surgery on his right knee
• Karim Adeyemi also returned to training after playing twice for Germany
• Raphinha and Joan García are still working away from the squad ahead of LaLiga's return

Frenkie de Jong steps up recovery from 2026 World Cup injury

The knee problem De Jong picked up during the World Cup in 2026 has kept him sidelined for roughly four months. He decided against going under the knife and instead followed a conservative recovery plan, a route that takes longer but limits long-term risks. On Monday he was still training individually, but by Tuesday he was able to join the rest of the squad, a clear sign that his knee is responding well to increased workload.

Being back in group training does not mean he is ready to play just yet. Barcelona's coaching staff and medical team want to avoid any setback in a joint that has already been through a long rehabilitation process, so they are handling his return with caution.

Hansi Flick's plan for Frenkie de Jong and returning internationals

De Jong's return gives Hansi Flick fresh options in midfield ahead of a demanding stretch of the season. The Dutchman offers composure on the ball, clean distribution and the ability to arrive late in the box, qualities that fit the German coach's style. Barcelona will manage his minutes carefully and his availability for the next matchday will depend on how he responds to training this week.

Adeyemi back after strong international break with Germany

Karim Adeyemi also rejoined Barcelona training following the international break. The attacker started both of Germany's matches, playing 80 minutes in the 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, where he provided an assist, and 76 minutes against Greece. He featured on the right wing in both games, a role he has made his own in recent weeks. With Barcelona he has already registered three goals and three assists in three starts.

Raphinha and Joan García in doubt for LaLiga return

Raphinha remains out of group training as a precaution. The Brazilian left international duty early after feeling discomfort in his right thigh during the friendly against Australia, where he was replaced at half-time. Tests ruled out a serious injury, but Flick is keeping a close eye on his condition and prefers not to rush him back.

Joan García is still working through his recovery from the edema and discomfort in his right knee that forced him to stop in September. He is expected to be available for the resumption of LaLiga, although his progress over the coming days will be the decisive factor. The rest of the internationals are due back at Flick's disposal on Thursday.

What is at stake for Barcelona as LaLiga resumes

Barcelona return to domestic action knowing that every point matters in a title race that leaves little room for error. Getting De Jong, Raphinha and Joan García back at full speed would give Flick a deeper squad to rotate without losing quality. LaLiga is entering a phase where dropped points are costly, and the Catalan side wants all its key players available as the schedule gets tougher.