Frenkie de Jong did not come out of the practice match against Red Bull Salzburg unscathed. Barcelona reported Thursday afternoon through official channels that the midfielder has sprained a calf muscle in his right leg. The club says it is not yet clear how long De Jong will be out of circulation, but Spanish media assume seven to ten days. The club also announces that midfielder Gavi has broken his jaw.
De Jong had a basic place against Red Bull Salzburg and was taken off the side six minutes before the end. He was replaced by Rey Manaj. If De Jong is indeed absent for seven to ten days, his participation in the first league match is at stake. Barcelona will play at home against Real Sociedad on Sunday, August 15. The match against Juventus for the Trofeu Joan Gamper next Sunday seems to be missed by De Jong.
Gavi played 71 minutes against Red Bull Salzburg. The youngster, who celebrates his seventeenth birthday on Thursday, makes a good impression in the preparation and is seen as one of the greatest talents in the youth academy. It is unknown how long he will be absent. His recovery will show how serious the injury is. There is a chance that he could play with a helmet against Juventus and/or in the opening game against Real Sociedad.
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