Dutchman Frenkie De Jong has expressed his wish to play the Clasico. He is even willing to take painkillers to do so.
Injury Crisis
There are still concerns over the availability of several Blaugrana players with just hours to go. Before the first El Clasico of the 2023–24 season. The match between Barcelona and Real Madrid takes place at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
According to reports on Friday, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski are expected to get the all-clear from their doctors to play again.
Pedri, Jules Kounde, and Frenkie de Jong, on the other hand, were said to be almost eliminated despite making an appearance during training on Friday.
Dutchman De Jong
However, Ivan San Antonio of SPORT has since released another report. In which he asserts that De Jong has consented to play despite receiving a shot of painkillers. One of Barça’s greatest performers this season. The Netherlands international was hurt in the match against Celta Vigo last month, breaking his ankle.
According to early indications, De Jong was not going to arrive in time for the season’s first Clasico. Because of this, his and the other injured players’ (except Sergi Roberto’s) sudden return to training on Friday came as a great surprise.
Confusion all Around
However, it’s now being said that in order to be eligible to play against Madrid. The Dutchman would be prepared to take a painkiller.
In contrast to previous years, Barcelona manager Xavi has chosen not to reveal the starting lineup. For the encounter against Real Madrid on game night.
Rather, the Catalans are playing it close to the vest. And will reveal the starting lineup much closer to the match.
They would have more time to evaluate the injuries of every wounded player, and it would also cast suspicion on the other team.
Therefore, it remains to be seen if De Jong makes the squad list or not, even though it is currently being reported that he can return with an injection of a painkiller.
