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Topics: Barcelona, Frenkie De Jong, Injury, La Liga, Manchester United, Football
Rory O'Callaghan
Topics: Barcelona, Frenkie De Jong, Injury, La Liga, Manchester United, Football
Frenkie de Jong's lengthy absence looks set to continue amid claims the Barcelona star has ignored advice from the club's doctors.
The Dutch midfielder, 27, has not featured for Barcelona since suffering an ankle injury against Real Madrid on April 21.
There has been confusion over how long De Jong could remain sidelined following conflicting reports, and a lack of clarity from both the club and player.
After missing the final months of last season, former Ajax star De Jong made an effort to be part of the Netherlands' squad for Euro 2024.
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He was initially named in a provisional squad for the tournament before being replaced when it became clear he would not be fit enough to compete in Germany.
Spanish outlet SPORT (via the Daily Express) report that Barcelona are still unsure as to when De Jong will return to action.
It is also claimed that there have been 'disagreements' over his injury that have raised concerns at the club.
Barcelona have reportedly advised De Jong to undergo surgery on his ankle but the Dutchman has so far refused to go under the knife - which has been a cause of 'suspicion' among bosses at the Catalan club.
It is claimed that De Jong believes that surgery 'does not guarantee anything' and would rather undergo his own rehabilitation programme.
However, Barca will refuse to play him until they are convinced that he is fully fit.
In the meantime, De Jong is continuing to work away from the senior squad and a return to competitive football is not imminent.
Head coach Hansi Flick had hoped for De Jong to be integrated back into his squad after the ongoing international break, with La Liga leaders Barcelona facing Girona on Sunday.
But he is set to remained sidelined, with concerns growing over his prolonged absence from first-team football.
De Jong is one of the best-paid players at the Nou Camp, on reported wages of around £400,000 per week.
He is under contract with the cash-strapped club until 2027 and there have been suggestions Barcelona may look to sell him in January to help balance the books.
Manchester United are long-term admirers of the midfielder, while Liverpool have also been linked with the Netherlands star.
SPORTbible has contacted De Jong's representatives for comment.