Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase split

Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase divided

between admiration for his technical prowess and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/

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## The Unattained Prospect: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Enigma

The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s extremely desired playmakers, coming off a Champions League final four run with Ajax that demonstrated his aptitude to control games with grace and vision. His €75 million acquisition represented a long-term commitment in a player capable of anchoring Barcelona’s central core.

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## The Injury Plague: Catalyst for Discontent

De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a critical juncture in fan perception. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde incapacitated him for six months. His rushed return led to persistent relapses, with medical staff pushing for a procedure – an option De Jong resisted in favor of conservative therapy.

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## Contractual Impasse: Postponed Salaries and Loyalty Questioned

The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible administration. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million obligation that compounds through 2026. This financial framework, combined with La Liga’s wage cap regulations, hindered the club’s capability to register new signings.

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## The Jeering Incident: Low Point in Player-Supporter Relations

The climax of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League fixture against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with mocking jeers and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a marked opposition to the ovation given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s apparent frustration with the crowd underscored the hostile climate.