Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a chronicle of missed opportunities, growing tensions, and a fanbase split
between admiration for his technical prowess and frustration with his perceived limitations. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Conundrum
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s most sought-after midfield maestros, coming off a Champions League semi-final campaign with Ajax that highlighted his aptitude to dictate games with grace and foresight. His €75 million transfer represented a strategic purchase in a talent equipped of anchoring Barcelona’s central core.
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## The Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Discord
De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a critical juncture in fan opinion. 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 recommending for surgical intervention – an option De Jong avoided in favor of conservative therapy.
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## Financial Deadlock: Deferred Payments and Allegiance Doubted
The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent leadership. To address COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million liability that accumulates through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s wage cap regulations, hindered the club’s ability to register new recruits.
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## The Derision Episode: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The climax of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League encounter against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was greeted by mocking jeers and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the applause given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s visible irritation with the crowd underscored the poisonous environment.