Tue Oct 01 20:37:29 UTC 2024: ## De Jong Opens Up About Mental Trauma From Repetitive Knee Injuries

**Barcelona, Spain** – FC Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has revealed the emotional toll of his recurring knee injuries, dismissing rumors and speculation surrounding his absence from the field. In a recent interview, the Dutch midfielder described the mental trauma caused by three separate injuries to his right ankle in the past year.

De Jong, who initially suffered the injury in September 2023, explained that he has been grappling with the frustration of missing crucial games, including the Euros and several Barcelona matches. “It’s been a tough process because playing football is what I love most,” he said. “When you can’t play big games, it’s really hard, really difficult.”

Despite speculation suggesting surgery, De Jong revealed he opted against it, prioritizing his long-term health and working closely with the Barcelona medical staff. He dismissed rumors about his salary, stating that his main focus is on returning to the pitch as soon as possible.

“People are talking a lot about whether I have to have surgery. It’s not true that the club told me I had to have an operation and I didn’t want one,” De Jong clarified. “I understand the frustrations because throughout my recovery I have chosen to stay silent…But then things come out that are not true, like I don’t want surgery, that I earn loads of money.”

While De Jong is working hard to regain his fitness, he is not expected to return before the upcoming international break. Barcelona’s next match is against Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League on October 2nd.

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