Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a chronicle of missed opportunities, mounting strain, and a fanbase divided
between appreciation for his tactical genius and exasperation over his apparent deficiencies. 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, fresh from a Champions League penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that highlighted his aptitude to dictate games with grace and insight. His €75 million acquisition represented a strategic purchase in a talent capable of securing Barcelona’s central core.
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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Disillusionment
De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a watershed moment in fan sentiment. A severe ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His hasty rehabilitation led to recurring setbacks, with medical staff advocating for an operation – an option De Jong avoided in favor of non-invasive treatment.
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## Financial Deadlock: Delayed Compensation and Allegiance Doubted
The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible leadership. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona delayed €17 million of his earnings, creating a burgeoning €30 million liability that accumulates through 2026. This financial framework, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, hampered the club’s ability to enroll new recruits.
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## The Jeering Incident: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The climax of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League match against Brest. When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was subjected to scornful catcalls and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the ovation given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd emphasized the hostile climate.
