Frenkie de Jong returns for Barcelona after 155-day absence in El Clasico defeat

Frenkie de Jong made his long-awaited return for Barcelona after 155 days out, coming off the bench in their 2-1 defeat by Real Madrid in La Liga.

The Netherlands midfielder was introduced by Hansi Flick in the 74th minute at Spotify Camp Nou, replacing Fermin Lopez as Barcelona searched for a winning goal with the score level at 1-1.

De Jong received a warm welcome from the home supporters as he returned to competitive action. Flick brought him on in an attempt to add energy to midfield and help Barcelona take control of an open, fast-paced El Clasico.

The Barcelona manager deployed De Jong on the right side of midfield, in a position similar to the one occupied by Pedri. However, his comeback was followed by disappointment when Real Madrid struck again in the 87th minute.

Kylian Mbappe finished a counter-attack to give Real Madrid victory and deny Barcelona all three points.

De Jong had suffered a tear to the medial collateral ligament in his right knee on 23 July 2026. The injury kept him out of action for several months, apart from his involvement with the Netherlands at the summer World Cup.

The midfielder had previously said he understood the frustration of some Barcelona supporters, who questioned why he had been able to represent his country while still unavailable for his club.

His appearance against Real Madrid came during a difficult match for Barcelona, but his recovery is viewed by Spanish newspaper Sport as a positive development for both the player and Flick.

De Jong is now gradually able to rebuild his fitness and match rhythm, giving Barcelona another midfield option for the remainder of the season.