Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a narrative of missed opportunities, growing tensions, and a fanbase split
Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase polarized
between appreciation for his tactical genius and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Wunderkind to Barcelona’s Enigma
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s highly coveted playmakers, following a Champions League final four run with Ajax that demonstrated his aptitude to control games with elegance and foresight. His €75 million transfer represented a long-term commitment in a player equipped of stabilizing Barcelona’s central core.
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## The Injury Plague: Catalyst for Disillusionment
De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a turning point in fan perception. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde incapacitated him for six months. His hasty rehabilitation led to recurring setbacks, with medical staff pushing for a procedure – an option De Jong avoided in favor of conservative therapy.
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## Wage Stalemate: Postponed Salaries and Allegiance Doubted
The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s economically reckless administration. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona delayed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million debt that grows through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s wage cap regulations, restricted the club’s ability 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 sharp difference to the ovation bestowed upon Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd underscored the toxic atmosphere.