Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a chronicle of missed opportunities, growing tensions, and a fanbase divided
between reverence for his skillful mastery and frustration with his perceived limitations. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Puzzle
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s most sought-after playmakers, coming off a Champions League semi-final campaign with Ajax that highlighted his capacity to dictate games with poise and vision. His €75 million transfer represented a future investment in a player capable of securing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.
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## The Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Discontent
De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a critical juncture in fan opinion. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His hasty rehabilitation led to ongoing complications, with medical staff pushing for a procedure – an option De Jong avoided in favor of traditional recovery methods.
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## Contractual Impasse: Deferred Payments and Loyalty Questioned
The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent leadership. To address COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million obligation that grows through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s salary restrictions, restricted the club’s capability to enroll new acquisitions.
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## The Boobygate: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The climax 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 When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a sharp difference to the applause given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s visible irritation with the crowd highlighted the hostile climate.