Sunday was a difficult night for Barcelona as they lost to Real Sociedad for the second time this domestic season. In the process, they also appeared to have lost Frenkie de Jong, as the Dutchman was substituted at halftime after a leg clash.

Only last week, against Crvena Zvezda, did the 27-year-old make his first start since missing five months of action this year. He just lasted forty-five minutes in his second. According to Sport, after taking a hit to his shin and then another to his ankle during the game, de Jong was afraid he had hurt his ankle again. De Jong started crying because he was so worried about the situation.

As it turned out, de Jong was simply knocked to the shin and was unharmed when he traveled to the Netherlands to play for his country. Nonetheless, it was interpreted as proof that de Jong is still not fully recovered, both psychologically and physically. It makes sense that he is still dealing with the fallout from a number of defeats.

Not just for this season, but sooner rather than later, Barcelona will need de Jong fighting fit. The Dutchman’s contract expires in 2026, and he is expected to play a significant role in their season. The Blaugrana will want a fit de Jong, but they will have to decide whether to trade him next summer or extend his contract.