Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a chronicle of missed opportunities, mounting strain, and a fanbase divided
between reverence for his skillful mastery and frustration with his perceived limitations. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unrealized Potential: From Ajax Wunderkind to Barcelona’s Puzzle
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s highly coveted central orchestrators, coming off a Champions League semi-final campaign with Ajax that highlighted his capacity to govern games with elegance and foresight. His €75 million acquisition represented a strategic purchase in a player equipped of securing Barcelona’s central core.
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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Discord
De Jong’s 2023-24 term marked a turning point in fan sentiment. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His premature comeback led to persistent relapses, with medical staff recommending for surgical intervention – an option De Jong resisted in favor of conservative therapy.
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## Wage Stalemate: Delayed Compensation and Loyalty Questioned
The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s contract terms – a holdover from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent leadership. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million liability that accumulates through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, restricted the club’s capacity to register new signings.
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## The Boobygate: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The zenith of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League fixture against Brest. When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with mocking jeers and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the ovation given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd highlighted the hostile climate.