Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a narrative of missed opportunities, growing tensions, and a fanbase polarized

Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unmet expectations, mounting strain, and a fanbase divided

between admiration for his technical prowess and exasperation over his apparent deficiencies. https://fandejong.com/

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## The Unrealized Potential: From Ajax Prodigy to Barcelona’s Conundrum

The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s most sought-after playmakers, fresh from a Champions League final four run with Ajax that showcased his ability to dictate games with elegance and vision. His €75 million signing represented a future investment in a individual prepared of stabilizing Barcelona’s midfield engine room.

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## The Injury Plague: Catalyst for Disillusionment

De Jong’s 2023-24 term marked a watershed moment in fan opinion. A devastating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde sidelined him for six months. His premature comeback led to persistent relapses, with medical staff recommending for surgical intervention – an option De Jong rejected in favor of conservative therapy.

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## Contractual Impasse: Postponed Salaries and Allegiance Doubted

The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a vestige from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent administration. To address COVID-19 losses, Barcelona delayed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million debt that grows through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, hindered the club’s ability to ratify new recruits.

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## The Boobygate: Nadir in Player-Supporter Relations

The zenith of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League encounter against Brest. When substituted in the 88th minute, De Jong was greeted by derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a marked opposition to the ovation received by Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s apparent frustration with the crowd highlighted the hostile climate.