Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has offered an encouraging fitness update on midfielder Frenkie de Jong, targeting a potential return to action following the upcoming international break.

The Dutch international has been sidelined with a persistent knee injury that disrupted his preparations, leading Barcelona's medical team and the player to opt for a conservative treatment plan focused on tailored recovery routines rather than undergoing surgery.

While the 29-year-old midfielder's recovery initially faced delays due to discomfort while running, Flick confirmed that the former Ajax playmaker is making steady progress toward full match fitness.

"I hope to count on Frenkie de Jong soon, maybe after the break," Flick told reporters. "Frenkie is a great player, of quality and who is evolving well from his injury, working as expected."

De Jong's imminent return will provide a major boost to Flick's midfield options as the Catalan giants navigate a demanding domestic and European schedule.