Barcelona have revealed that Frenkie de Jong suffered a high ankle sprain during Saturday's La Liga contest with Celta Vigo.
The Netherlands international had to be replaced in the latter stages of the first half against the Sky Blues, and he looked in considerable discomfort after the injury had occurred.
Barcelona have now confirmed that the midfielder is facing a spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury, with some reports suggesting that he could be absent for the next six weeks due to the nature of the issue.
"Tests carried out have shown that Frenkie de Jong has a high right ankle sprain. He is out and his recovery will determine his availability," read a statement on the Catalan side's official website.
De Jong has been a vital player for Barcelona this season, scoring once in six appearances, and he could soon be in line for a new contract at Camp Nou despite constant links with Manchester United.
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Barcelona were 1-0 down when De Jong left the field on Saturday, but Xavi's side managed to turn the tie around to win 3-2 after falling 2-0 behind in the 76th minute.
"When you don't play well, you have to compete and win. The comeback was everything. We believed until the end. We played with courage and belief, but we were very disorganised today," said Xavi when discussing the victory that took his side to the top of the La Liga table.
"Today's (Saturday's) match is a turning point. Not everything is about football. It's about character, the mentality to show that you want to win.
"Normally, a 0-2 result at home would have you defeated, but it's different for this amazing group of young players. You can see the generational change that's happening.
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"We'll sleep as the league leaders. That's a positive thing. Hopefully, at the end of the season, we can say that these three points made us win the league."
When asked about De Jong's injury immediately after the match, the Barcelona boss added: "De Jong requested to be subbed off. He has an injury, but we hope it's as small as possible.
"More tests have to be done, but Frenkie de Jong is strong. If he couldn't continue, then he has something."
De Jong has joined Pedri on the sidelines, with the Spaniard still missing due to a thigh problem, but Ronald Araujo made his return from injury off the bench against Celta.
Barcelona will be aiming to make it seven straight wins in all competitions when they continue their La Liga campaign away to Mallorca on Tuesday night.
Matt Law
