Barcelona's pre-season preparations have been hit hard by the news that Frenkie de Jong is facing up to six months on the sidelines after returning from the World Cup with a serious knee injury. The club are reportedly furious with Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman and the Dutch medical staff, believing they were misled about the midfielder's condition during the tournament. It is a significant setback for Hansi Flick's squad at a time when the club were hoping to build momentum after finishing the LaLiga season as champions, eight points clear of Real Madrid with 94 points from 38 games.

Off the pitch, Barcelona are pushing hard in the transfer market to compensate for the disruption. An official bid has been submitted for Borussia Dortmund winger Karim Adeyemi, who has agreed personal terms, and the club have requested a €210 million credit line to fund up to three signings this summer. The pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez remains a priority, though Atletico are refusing to sell to Barcelona directly, with Arsenal also circling. President Joan Laporta has made clear the offer will not remain open indefinitely.

There are also question marks over the squad's shape heading into the new campaign. Jules Kounde has attracted interest from Bayern Munich, while Ferran Torres appears set to leave for PSG as the club looks to manage its financial position. The confirmed loan signing of teenage Ecuadorian Josue Caicedo offers a glimpse of long-term planning, but the De Jong injury means the immediate priority is addressing a serious gap in midfield.