Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase divided
between reverence for his skillful mastery and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unattained Prospect: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Enigma
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s extremely desired playmakers, following a Champions League penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that demonstrated his ability to dictate games with poise and foresight. His €75 million transfer represented a future investment in a talent prepared of stabilizing Barcelona’s midfield engine room.
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## The Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Discontent
De Jong’s 2023-24 season marked a watershed moment in fan perception. A severe 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 a procedure – an option De Jong avoided in favor of traditional recovery methods.
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## Financial Deadlock: Postponed Salaries and Loyalty Questioned
The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent tenure. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona deferred €17 million of his earnings, creating a burgeoning €30 million liability that grows through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s salary restrictions, hindered the club’s ability to ratify new acquisitions.
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## The Boobygate: Low Point in Player-Supporter Relations
The peak of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League encounter against Brest. When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was subjected to scornful catcalls and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a sharp difference to the applause received by Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s apparent frustration with the crowd emphasized the hostile climate.