De Jong has a torn MCL and will likely miss multiple months as he recovers, according to his club.
Analysis:De Jong returned from the World Cup with a knee injury, and the severity has now been diagnosed, as the midfielder will miss time with a torn ACL. This will likely leave him out for anywhere from three to six months, although it will depend on his recovery, as with his injury history, a setback could take place. This will be a brutal blow for the club ahead of the new season, as he is a regular in their midfield. He will now miss the start of the season and likely return near the end of 2026, leaving more time for Fermin, Gavi, Marc Casado and Marc Bernal to join the midfield.