Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a saga of unmet expectations, increasing friction, and a fanbase split

Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a narrative of unrealized possibilities, increasing friction, and a fanbase polarized

between admiration for his technical prowess and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/

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## The Unattained Prospect: From Ajax Wunderkind to Barcelona’s Enigma

The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s highly coveted midfield maestros, coming off a Champions League final four run with Ajax that demonstrated his aptitude to control games with poise 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 Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Disillusionment

De Jong’s 2023-24 term marked a critical juncture in fan perception. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His premature comeback led to recurring setbacks, with medical staff recommending for an operation – an option De Jong avoided in favor of conservative therapy.

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## Financial Deadlock: Postponed Salaries and Allegiance Doubted

The center of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible leadership. To navigate COVID-19 losses, Barcelona deferred €17 million of his earnings, creating a burgeoning €30 million liability that compounds through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, restricted the club’s ability to ratify new signings.

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## The Jeering Incident: Nadir in Player-Supporter Relations

The peak of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League encounter against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was subjected to derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the ovation bestowed upon Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd emphasized the hostile climate.