Frenkie de Jong Suffers Injury, Ruled Out of Euro 2024

Frenkie de Jong has been ruled out of Euro 2024 due to injury, a significant setback for the Netherlands. The Barcelona midfielder suffered recurring ankle injuries, featuring just three times for Barcelona since March 3.

What happened to Frenkie de Jong?

Frenkie de Jong was substituted off in the first half of Barcelona's match at Athletic Bilbao on March 3 and was taken off before half-time on his La Liga return against Real Madrid on April 21. He was included in the Netherlands' Euro 2024 squad despite not playing for club or country since.

Why it matters for Frenkie de Jong

Frenkie de Jong is widely regarded as a key player for the Netherlands, scoring twice in 54 international caps. Coach Ronald Koeman said "Tests have shown that he cannot compete" after Monday's 4-0 friendly win over Iceland. The Netherlands may also have an injury concern over Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners, who had to be replaced in the starting line-up.

What comes next for the Netherlands?

The Netherlands get their Euro 2024 campaign underway against Poland on June 16, facing France five days later and concluding their group stage against Austria on June 25. Jerdy Schouten and Joey Veerman are the likely pairing for the Netherlands' first group-stage game against Poland. Other options to play the double-pivot role include Koopmeiners and ex-Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum. Frenkie de Jong's absence is a huge blow to Ronald Koeman, with the Barcelona pivot being the only midfielder with extensive experience of international football. The Netherlands will rely on Schouten and Veerman, with Veerman impressing during the Netherlands' 4-0 warm-up win over Iceland on Monday evening.