Luuk de Jong insists his career is not over after a serious knee injury curtailed his first season at FC Porto, while De Telegraaf reports that PSV still miss the experienced striker.

The veteran striker has refused to close the door on his playing career as he continues the final stages of his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury.

The former PSV captain left Eindhoven in the summer of 2025, joining FC Porto on a free transfer after three seasons with the Dutch club. His first campaign in Portugal, however, was disrupted by injury before the winter break, bringing his season to an early end.

Despite De Jong's absence, Porto went on to win the national title under former Ajax coach Francesco Farioli. The striker nevertheless decided to leave Portugal after the campaign, with his future now still undecided.

Speaking to PSV TV about his recovery, De Jong provided an encouraging update.

“I feel good and things are going well with my knee too. I’m in the final phase of my rehabilitation. Now I’m calmly waiting to see what’s still to come.”

The 36-year-old admitted that his experience at Porto had not unfolded as he had hoped. He had moved to Portugal looking to make an impact, only for the injury to intervene.

“It was frustrating that I got injured, because you embark on an adventure and hope to make an impact. Of course, that's not what you hope for, even though I remained positive about it.”

Rather than stepping away from the group, De Jong remained involved with his teammates and tried to contribute away from the pitch.

“I stayed with the team to support them wherever I could. This could also have happened at the start of my career, so maybe it's 'better' that it happened now.”

The severity of the injury inevitably forced De Jong to confront questions about his future. Yet the striker says he never reached the conclusion that his career should end.

“When you get the doctor's results, a lot goes through your mind. You won't be playing the season anymore anyway, but the question is also whether you come back well and what happens after that. I don't feel like this is the end of my career.”

According to De Telegraaf PSV watcher Jeroen Kapteijns, the striker's qualities are still being missed in Eindhoven.

Kapteijns pointed specifically to PSV's Champions League campaign and their recent draw, suggesting De Jong would have been a valuable fit for a match of that level.

De Jong remains one of the most experienced strikers in PSV's recent history. His ability to lead the line, compete physically and provide a focal point in attack made him an important figure during his time at the club.

His departure therefore continues to be felt as PSV navigate another demanding season domestically and in Europe.

Despite the disappointment surrounding his injury, De Jong had warm words for the people at Porto and the support he received throughout his rehabilitation.

“They were very caring and they were thinking along with me. I was operated on in the Netherlands, and at every appointment I had, a physiotherapist went with me. That was really great.”

The long rehabilitation was difficult, but remaining around the Porto squad helped him through the process.

“Because it took a long time, it was quite tough, but because I was at the club and among the boys, it was easier than if I had been somewhere external.”

De Jong now has the opportunity to recover fully before making a decision. With his rehabilitation nearing completion, the former Netherlands international is keeping his options open.

“It has been a wonderful adventure, but because of the injury I also took the time to think things over. It’s also nice to be home with family and friends, and to see what’s still to come. All options are still open.”

For now, De Jong's priority is clear: complete his recovery and see where the next chapter of his career takes him.