FC Barcelona receives a massive boost as star midfielder available against Young Boys

FC Barcelona's start to the new season had been spectacular, with the club dominating their opponents casually; however, it hasn't been easy for the club in recent games. Coming on the back of disappointing losses, both in the La Liga campaign as well as the UCL, the club needs to come stronger than ever as they eye their first win of the UCL campaign against Young Boys.

FC Barcelona receives a massive boost as star midfielder available against Young Boys

Carefully analyzing the last two losses of the Catalan club against Monaco as well as Osasuna, it is clear that the unavailability of key players has cost them well. While an early red card for Eric Garcia had proved fatal for their UCL season opener, Flick's compulsion to rotate the squad against Osasuna resulted much more significantly against them.

However, positive updates regarding the return of the Blaugrana club's seasoned stars might ease out much of their injury concerns. De Jong, who has been one of the consistent mainstays in the Catalan club's lineup since his signing in the summer of 2019, is expected to be called up for the club's UCL matchday against Young Boys.

While it has been a while since the Dutchman's return was predicted soon, it now feels like the time has arrived for him to represent the club once again. As per reports from Mundo Deportivo, Hansi Flick has confirmed that de Jong will return to the football pitch today. In fact, as was expected from the manager, who has been monitoring the midfielder's recovery for much time, Flick seemed very happy announcing his availability for the fixture.

In the pre-match conference, Flick spoke,

""Frenkie de Jong's return is great news. Even if it's just for five or ten minutes. It's a reason for joy for the whole team. If he gets the chance, he'll play.""

- Hansi Flick

Clearly, for FC Barcelona, who has been operating with the bare minimum of 3 midfield options combined with Eric Garcia as a transformed pivot, de Jong's return would be significant. Given the Dutchman's utility and versatility, he could feature anywhere in Flick's midfield setup, be it in the pivot role or as a number 10.

However, considering the fact that he has just returned, Flick might not give him plenty of minutes in the fixture against Young Boys. As has been the manager's methodology for recovered players, he would transition de Jong smoothly and steadily into the Barcelona setup. Overall, as Barca face Young Boys in their second UCL matchday, de Jong's return could prove to be a much-needed boost for the club's midfield.