Barcelona captain expected to be ready for Copa del Rey semifinal despite missing Mallorca clash

Barcelona breathed a collective sigh of relief on Wednesday when Diario AS reported that Frenkie de Jong is expected to recover in time for next week’s Copa del Rey semifinal first leg against Atlético Madrid. The Dutch midfielder, who captains the side in the continued absence of several senior players, was an unused substitute in Tuesday night’s La Liga victory over Mallorca after reporting minor pubic-area discomfort that has lingered for several days.

Coach Hansi Flick confirmed the decision was precautionary. “Frenkie de Jong is not at 100%, and that’s why he’s on the bench and isn’t playing today,” Flick told reporters ahead of kick-off at Spotify Camp Nou. The club’s medical staff opted to spare the 27-year-old any unnecessary risk, mindful of the condensed schedule and the looming cup tie.

With more than 72 hours separating the final whistle against Mallorca and the trip to the Metropolitano, Barcelona’s staff are confident the rest period will allow De Jong to complete a full recovery. Should he receive final medical clearance, the former Ajax standout is poised to start in midfield alongside Fermín López and Dani Olmo, a trio that has shown encouraging chemistry in recent outings.

De Jong’s availability would be especially welcome given Pedri’s confirmed absence for the first leg. The Canary Islander remains sidelined, placing additional creative responsibility on the Dutchman’s shoulders.

So far this season De Jong has registered 17 appearances—14 of them starts—in La Liga, registering four assists while completing 95 percent of his passes and averaging over 75 touches per match. His composure in possession and ability to break opposition lines will be central to Barcelona’s hopes of securing a positive result in the Spanish capital.