Just in – Barcelona midfield superstar a doubt for Alaves clash

In a concerning development hours before the game against Alaves, SPORT reports that FC Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is a doubt for the contest.

The Catalan giants take on the Vitoria-based outfit in La Liga in exactly two hours at the Spotify Camp Nou, and there has been an unexpected development with regard to De Jong.

As per the report, the Netherlands international did not join his teammates this morning at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper for the usual pre-match gathering before heading to the hotel, and he is now doubtful for the game.

De Jong did not play for Barcelona last week against Athletic Club, on the reopening of the Spotify Camp Nou, as he was suspended due to the red card he picked up vs Celta Vigo.

Frenkie to miss Alaves clash? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The Dutch midfielder returned to the starting XI earlier this week when the Blaugrana faced Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge.

He was very much expected to be in the lineup today against Alaves as well, given that Pedri has only returned from injury and can only play a few minutes today.

But with De Jong’s availability now under a cloud of doubt, manager Hansi Flick will have to find alternative solutions in midfield.

Barcelona have already lost Fermin Lopez for the next two weeks of competition after it was confirmed that the attacking midfielder suffered a minor soleus injury.

Ronald Araujo will also not be at the Camp Nou as he is recovering from a stomach bug, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Gavi are also unavailable.