Barcelona star will play 25-30 minutes vs Rayo Vallecano as he returns from injury

As Barcelona get set to take on Rayo Vallecano away at Estadio de Vallecas on Saturday, they have greeted mixed news on the injury front.

The bad news is that the Catalans will be without Gavi and Marc-Andre ter Stegen for the trip, with the former even out for the season. But, the positive update comes in the form of Frenkie de Jong returning from injury.

Frenkie could play 25-30 minutes vs Rayo Vallecano

And, Javi Miguel of AS is going on to claim that Frenkie de Jong will make his comeback onto the pitch against Rayo tomorrow and play around 25-30 minutes.

The 26-year-old has been out since late September when he suffered an ankle injury in the first half of the game against Celta Vigo.

The Dutchman’s prolonged absence has been felt by the Blaugrana, with their performances taking a downturn, especially in their more recent matches.

Hence, De Jong’s imminent return will be a much-needed boost for Xavi Hernandez & co. as they look to close down the gap to the top of the La Liga table.

De Jong back and fully fit. (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

What did Xavi say?

Speaking at the press conference earlier today, Xavi confirmed that De Jong is 100% fit and will return to the field against Rayo Vallecano.

“We have noticed Frenkie’s loss when he has not been there, like Pedri’s. He is 100% fit, he has been with the group for days and is available,” the Barcelona manager said.

But, the Dutchman will not be starting tomorrow if the report from Javi Miguel is to be believed and will only feature for around half an hour.

With Gavi also out, Xavi will likely field a midfield trio of Ilkay Gundogan, Pedri, and Oriol Romeu against Rayo in the starting lineup. Another option would be to replace Romeu with Fermin Lopez or start with all four midfielders.

Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-star-will-play-25-30-minutes-vs-rayo-vallecano-as-he-returns-from-injury/

Author : Michel Durant

Publish date : 2023-11-24 14:51:48

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.