Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unmet expectations, increasing friction, and a fanbase split
between appreciation for his tactical genius and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unrealized Potential: From Ajax Sensation to Barcelona’s Enigma
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s extremely desired central orchestrators, fresh from a Champions League penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that highlighted his ability to control games with elegance and foresight. His €75 million transfer represented a future investment in a individual capable of stabilizing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.
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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Discontent
De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a turning point in fan opinion. A severe ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde benched him for six months. His premature comeback led to persistent relapses, with medical staff recommending for a procedure – an option De Jong avoided in favor of traditional recovery methods.
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## Financial Deadlock: Deferred Payments and Loyalty Questioned
The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a holdover from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s economically reckless leadership. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million debt that grows through 2026. This financial framework, combined with La Liga’s salary restrictions, hindered the club’s capacity to ratify new signings.
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## The Jeering Incident: Nadir in Player-Supporter Relations
The zenith 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 stark contrast to the applause given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s visible irritation with the crowd emphasized the poisonous environment.