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

Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a chronicle of unmet expectations, growing tensions, and a fanbase divided

between admiration for his technical prowess and frustration with his perceived limitations. https://fandejong.com/

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

The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s highly coveted playmakers, fresh from a Champions League semi-final campaign with Ajax that highlighted his ability to control games with grace and insight. His €75 million acquisition represented a long-term commitment in a individual capable of anchoring Barcelona’s central core.

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## The Injury Plague: Catalyst for Discord

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 hasty rehabilitation led to persistent relapses, with medical staff pushing for surgical intervention – an option De Jong resisted in favor of traditional recovery methods.

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## Wage Stalemate: Delayed Compensation and Loyalty Questioned

The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s economically reckless tenure. To navigate COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a escalating €30 million obligation that compounds through 2026. This payment structure, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, hindered the club’s capability to enroll new recruits.

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## The Boobygate: Low Point in Player-Supporter Relations

The climax of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League fixture against Brest. When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with mocking jeers and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a marked opposition to the acclaim given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s clear annoyance with the crowd underscored the hostile climate.