Why Frenkie de Jong is not ready for the Clasico

A few minutes ago, Xavi released the squad list for this afternoon's Clasico. Frenkie de Jong is not in the squad. The Dutchman, although he tried out training yesterday and did part of the session with the group, did not have a good feeling this morning and has been left out of the squad in the end.

De Jong was injured on 23 September against Celta. He suffered an injury to the distal tibioperoneal syndesmosis of the right ankle. The club did not inform about the time he would be out, but it was already explained at the time that, if he made it to the clásico, it would be very tight.

The club explained that the injury is now healed, but that the player still felt discomfort in his right ankle and that they preferred that he not play if he was not at 100%. There is still a long season ahead and it is preferable not to take any risks.

The club said that they were already aware that the player, who is vital to Xavi's plans, would find it very difficult to reach the game against Real Madrid, given that until a few days ago his ankle was still immobilised.