Barcelona's preparations for the highly anticipated El Clásico have been dealt a significant and sudden setback after news emerged that one of their star midfielders could be ruled out of the clash.
The crucial player's absence stems from an abrupt illness. According to Diario Sport, Frenkie de Jong missed Thursday's training session entirely. After arriving at the Ciutat Esportiva training ground, he was quickly assessed and sent home, as he was deemed in no physical condition to participate.
This sudden illness has cast a shadow over the Dutchman's immediate availability for the game. Losing a player of de Jong's calibre would be a devastating blow to Barcelona's midfield integrity and calmness as they prepare for their biggest match of the season so far.
It is currently unclear if the illness is related to the issue that sidelined Andreas Christensen for Monday’s training and the recent match against Olympiacos. However, if the cause is the rumored stomach bug or gastroenteritis, De Jong's recovery could be tight, given that Christensen only managed to return to full training today.
While this is naturally a significant worry for the club, the key is the timing: with El Clásico still three days, there remains a window and hope for the Dutchman to make a rapid recovery and feature in Hansi Flick's squad.
Hansi Flick has limited options to choose from as the numbers for the central midifield position already look thin with Gavi and Dani Olmo ruled out of this game, while Raphinha and Ferran Torres availibility are questioned after returning back from training recently. There remains more of a risk for Raphinha given he has been out since early September.
Having recently signed a contract extension until 2029, the stand-in captain, in Ronald Araujo's abscence, has affirmed his commitment to Barcelona, confirming his long-term dream to succeed at the club. This determination will undoubtedly fuel de Jong's efforts to ensure he is fit for the visit to the Santiago Bernabéu, eager to continue the team's recent dominance over Real Madrid and secure all three points.