De Jong Returns to the Pitch, But Problems Persist

Frenkie de Jong continues to make progress in his recovery, despite still experiencing pain. The Dutch midfielder is working diligently to overcome the injury sustained during the World Cup, and this Tuesday marked another step in a process that still requires time. According to reports from "Sport," Frenkie briefly stepped onto the pitch at Ciutat Esportiva for an individual training session.

The player returned from the World Cup with a significant injury to his right knee. Subsequent medical examinations by the Barça medical staff confirmed a tear of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee. The club opted for conservative treatment, and his condition has been closely monitored ever since. This Tuesday, the Dutchman laced up his boots and returned to the field, though he remains far from being able to train with his teammates.

According to information obtained by the publication, the midfielder performed light jogging and strictly controlled exercises to assess his leg's reaction. The primary intention was to test his condition and gauge how he felt after weeks of rehabilitation, but he still experiences pain, particularly when stopping. This indicates he is far from optimal fitness.

Both Barça and the player himself are keen to proceed cautiously. There is no intention to rush the recovery process, and the evolution of the injury will dictate when the workload can be increased and, subsequently, when he can rejoin group training. Nevertheless, there is some disappointment within the club regarding how the player managed his recovery timelines last season.