De Jong Ban Casts Shadow on Barcelona's Sociedad Clash
13 January 2026
Disciplinary decision and immediate impact
Barcelona star suspended after being sent off against Real Madrid.
The Spanish Football Federation announced on Tuesday that Frenkie de Jong, Barcelona's midfield star, has received a sanction.
De Jong was sent off in the latest Clasico against Real Madrid, in the Spanish Super Cup final held on Sunday in Saudi Arabia.
Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-2 to lift the Spanish Super Cup for the second straight year.
De Jong was sent off for a direct red after a rough challenge on Frenchman Kylian Mbappé.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the sanction is one match, plus a fine under Article 52.
Furthermore, Article 56 explains the suspension will rule out Barcelona vs Racing in the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona will face Racing in the Round of 16 on Thursday.
Consequently, De Jong is expected to return for the next La Liga game versus Real Sociedad, scheduled for Sunday.
Punchline: That red card was so dramatic, even the popcorn stopped popping.
Punchline: If Barca survive Sociedad without De Jong, they earned it with a bench-full of patience.
