Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a chronicle of missed opportunities, mounting strain, and a fanbase polarized
between reverence for his skillful mastery and exasperation over his apparent deficiencies. https://fandejong.com/
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## The Unattained Prospect: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Conundrum
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s most sought-after central orchestrators, fresh from a Champions League final four run with Ajax that demonstrated his capacity to govern games with elegance and foresight. His €75 million signing represented a future investment in a individual prepared of securing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.
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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Discord
De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a turning point in fan sentiment. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde incapacitated him for six months. His premature comeback led to ongoing complications, with medical staff advocating for a procedure – an option De Jong resisted in favor of non-invasive treatment.
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## Wage Stalemate: Postponed Salaries and Allegiance Doubted
The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible leadership. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million obligation that compounds through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, hampered the club’s capability to enroll new recruits.
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## The Jeering Incident: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The zenith of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League fixture against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with scornful catcalls and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a marked opposition to the applause bestowed upon Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd underscored the toxic atmosphere.
