Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, increasing friction, and a fanbase split
between reverence for his skillful mastery and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unattained Prospect: From Ajax Sensation to Barcelona’s Puzzle
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s extremely desired central orchestrators, following a Champions League final four run with Ajax that showcased his ability to control games with grace and vision. His €75 million transfer represented a strategic purchase in a player equipped of stabilizing Barcelona’s central core.
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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Discontent
De Jong’s 2023-24 term marked a watershed moment in fan opinion. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde benched him for six months. His premature comeback led to persistent relapses, with medical staff pushing for an operation – an option De Jong avoided in favor of conservative therapy.
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## Financial Deadlock: Postponed Salaries and Allegiance Doubted
The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a holdover from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible tenure. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona deferred €17 million of his earnings, creating a burgeoning €30 million liability that compounds through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s wage cap regulations, restricted the club’s capability to enroll new signings.
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## The Derision Episode: Low Point in Player-Supporter Relations
The zenith of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League match against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with mocking jeers and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a sharp difference to the applause received by Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd highlighted the toxic atmosphere.
