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

Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase split

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 highly coveted midfield maestros, coming off a Champions League penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that showcased his ability to control games with poise and insight. His €75 million signing represented a long-term commitment in a player equipped of stabilizing Barcelona’s midfield engine room.

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## The Injury Plague: Catalyst for Discord

De Jong’s 2023-24 term marked a turning point in fan perception. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His hasty rehabilitation led to ongoing complications, with medical staff recommending for a procedure – an option De Jong resisted in favor of non-invasive treatment.

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## Financial Deadlock: Deferred Payments and Commitment Scrutinized

The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s financially irresponsible administration. To manage COVID-19 losses, Barcelona deferred €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million liability that grows through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s wage cap regulations, restricted the club’s ability to ratify new recruits.

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## The Derision Episode: Low Point 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 met with derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the applause received by Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s visible irritation with the crowd emphasized the hostile climate.