Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a saga of missed opportunities, growing tensions, and a fanbase polarized
between reverence for his skillful mastery and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Sensation to Barcelona’s Puzzle
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s extremely desired midfield maestros, following a Champions League semi-final campaign with Ajax that demonstrated his aptitude to dictate games with grace and foresight. His €75 million acquisition represented a strategic purchase in a player prepared of stabilizing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.
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## The Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Disillusionment
De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a watershed moment in fan opinion. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde benched him for six months. His rushed return led to persistent relapses, with medical staff recommending for an operation – an option De Jong rejected in favor of non-invasive treatment.
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## Contractual Impasse: Deferred Payments and Loyalty Questioned
The center of the conflict lies in De Jong’s contract terms – a holdover from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s economically reckless tenure. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona delayed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million liability that accumulates through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, hampered the club’s capacity to ratify new signings.
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## The Derision Episode: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The peak of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League encounter against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with scornful catcalls 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.
