Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase split
between admiration for his technical prowess and exasperation over his apparent deficiencies. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unrealized Potential: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Puzzle
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 showcased his aptitude to control games with poise and foresight. His €75 million acquisition represented a future investment in a individual prepared of anchoring Barcelona’s central core.
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## The Injury Plague: Catalyst for Discontent
De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a watershed moment in fan sentiment. A debilitating 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 a procedure – an option De Jong avoided in favor of non-invasive treatment.
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## Wage Stalemate: Postponed Salaries and Loyalty Questioned
The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent administration. To navigate COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million debt that compounds through 2026. This financial framework, combined with La Liga’s wage cap regulations, hindered the club’s capability to ratify new acquisitions.
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## The Jeering Incident: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The zenith of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League match against Brest. When replaced in the 88th minute, De Jong was greeted by derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a sharp difference to the applause given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s apparent frustration with the crowd emphasized the toxic atmosphere.