Frenkie de Jong’s odyssey at Barcelona has been a narrative of unmet expectations, growing tensions, and a fanbase polarized

Frenkie de Jong’s career at Barcelona has been a chronicle of missed opportunities, increasing friction, and a fanbase split

between reverence for his skillful mastery and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/

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## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Prodigy 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 penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that demonstrated his capacity to dictate games with grace and insight. His €75 million signing represented a strategic purchase in a player prepared of anchoring Barcelona’s central core.

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## The Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Disillusionment

De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a critical juncture in fan opinion. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde incapacitated him for six months. His premature comeback led to persistent relapses, with medical staff pushing for an operation – an option De Jong resisted in favor of conservative therapy.

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## Contractual Impasse: Delayed Compensation and Commitment Scrutinized

The core of the conflict lies in De Jong’s salary package – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent administration. To navigate COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million liability that grows through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, restricted the club’s capability to register new recruits.

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## The Boobygate: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations

The peak of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League match against Brest. When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was greeted by derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a stark contrast to the applause bestowed upon Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s apparent frustration with the crowd highlighted the toxic atmosphere.