According to Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona midfielder De Jong was scheduled to participate in most of the team's combined training session on Monday (October 5) local time, marking a significant step in his recovery from a right knee injury. However, due to heavy rain and severe weather warnings in Barcelona, the team cancelled outdoor field training for that day, with all players training in the gym instead. As a result, De Jong's planned return had to be postponed by one day. Weather permitting, he will rejoin his teammates for field training on Tuesday.

Sport captured De Jong arriving at Barcelona Sports City at 8:35 a.m. local time on Monday, making him the first player to enter the training facility that day. This day was originally set to be an important milestone in his recovery, but sudden bad weather disrupted those plans.

Besides De Jong, Joan Garcia and Eric Garcia also arrived at the training facility early that day. Joan Garcia has been recovering in Barcelona during the international break due to right knee discomfort, while Eric Garcia withdrew from Spain's national team camp early as a precautionary measure.

De Jong's knee injury occurred more than two months ago during the World Cup. He first experienced knee discomfort during the group stage match against Sweden but continued playing for the national team, recording 110 minutes in the match against Morocco before the Netherlands were eliminated in a penalty shootout.

Upon returning to Barcelona, De Jong underwent further examination, which revealed a tear in his right medial collateral ligament. After assessment, the player and club ultimately decided to pursue conservative treatment, choosing not to have surgery.

Since then, De Jong has gradually continued his rehabilitation plan. If weather conditions allow the team to resume outdoor training, Tuesday will mark another important stage in his recovery.

For Barcelona, De Jong's upcoming return comes at a timely moment. Hansi Flick's team is currently performing exceptionally well, maintaining strong momentum in LaLiga and has built a significant point advantage over Real Madrid. Although the season is still long, Barcelona's current form is encouraging.

In this situation, there is no need for Barcelona to rush De Jong back to competitive matches. The club can allow the Dutch midfielder to gradually regain his match rhythm, ensuring he returns to play only when physically ready.

At the same time, De Jong's return will give Flick more options in midfield, helping the team reduce the physical demands on several key players.

The international break has placed increased workload on some Barcelona players. For instance, Rodri has recently accumulated significant playing time for both his club and Spain's national team and will need adequate rest upon his return. As De Jong gradually recovers, Flick will be better able to manage his midfielders' playing time, allowing frequently used players to get the necessary rotation.

Currently, Barcelona is performing well overall, and De Jong is nearing his return. Once the heavy rain subsides, he is expected to return to the training field on Tuesday and resume combined training with his teammates.

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