Barça – Atlético Madrid: De Jong ruled out! (official)

Barça – Atlético: major blow, De Jong absent

Barça – Atlético Madrid: De Jong ruled out! (official)

Hansi Flick thought he only had one major absentee for the showdown against Atlético Madrid, with Ronald Araujo missing for personal reasons. But just hours before kick-off, another blow has struck: Frenkie de Jong is also out of the squad. The Dutch midfielder has been hit by a high fever.

This unexpected absence complicates Barça’s preparations, even as they come off a 3–1 win at Alavés thanks to Lamine Yamal and a Dani Olmo brace. Sitting atop the table with 34 points, the Catalan club hosts an ambitious Atlético, currently fourth with 31 points but capable of seizing the lead with a win at Camp Nou.

The match will be played in front of 40,000 spectators and promises to be electric. With a depleted Barça and an Atlético side determined to make a statement, this Round 15 clash promises an intense battle at the summit of La Liga.