Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unmet expectations, increasing friction, and a fanbase polarized

Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unrealized possibilities, increasing friction, and a fanbase divided

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

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## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Sensation to Barcelona’s Puzzle

The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s most sought-after midfield maestros, coming off a Champions League semi-final campaign with Ajax that highlighted his aptitude to govern games with poise and foresight. His €75 million transfer represented a strategic purchase in a individual equipped of securing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.

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## The Physical Decline: Catalyst for Discontent

De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a critical juncture in fan perception. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde incapacitated him for six months. His rushed return led to persistent relapses, with medical staff recommending for a procedure – an option De Jong rejected in favor of traditional recovery methods.

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## Financial Deadlock: Deferred Payments and Allegiance Doubted

The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s economically reckless tenure. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a burgeoning €30 million obligation that compounds through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s salary restrictions, hampered the club’s capability to enroll new acquisitions.

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

The climax of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League encounter against Brest. When replaced in the 88th minute, De Jong was subjected to mocking jeers and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a marked opposition to the ovation bestowed upon Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd underscored the poisonous environment.