Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, increasing friction, and a fanbase split
between admiration for his technical prowess and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unattained Prospect: From Ajax Sensation to Barcelona’s Conundrum
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s most sought-after midfield maestros, following a Champions League penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that demonstrated his ability to govern games with elegance and insight. His €75 million acquisition represented a future investment in a player prepared of securing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.
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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Discord
De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a watershed moment in fan opinion. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His hasty rehabilitation led to persistent relapses, with medical staff advocating for an operation – an option De Jong rejected in favor of non-invasive treatment.
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## Wage Stalemate: Delayed Compensation and Loyalty Questioned
The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible leadership. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million liability that grows through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, restricted the club’s ability to register new recruits.
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## The Derision Episode: Trough 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 scornful catcalls and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the applause given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd highlighted the toxic atmosphere.