Frenkie de Jong's first season at Barcelona has not gone as planned, with the Dutch midfielder struggling to replicate the form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after talents. The 23-year-old, signed from Ajax for €75m (£68m) plus add-ons, has often looked ordinary, and his recent calf strain has sidelined him for crucial matches.
Reports from Radio Catalunya suggested De Jong was unhappy with how the club handled his injury and wanted to return to the Netherlands for treatment. However, sources indicate there is no major conflict, as it is common for players to consider treatment in their home countries. De Jong's frustration stems more from missing the most important part of the season, where he could have proven his worth.
De Jong has played 38 games this season but has been a victim of instability at the club. Barcelona sacked coach Ernesto Valverde in January, and new boss Quique Setien has used three different systems, with De Jong deployed in four positions. He has been asked to play higher up the pitch than at Ajax, where he excelled as a deep-lying playmaker.
Setien praised De Jong as 'a very complete player' with excellent physical condition, but the midfielder has struggled to adapt. His former Ajax coach Erik ten Hag noted that De Jong is a supplier, not a goalscorer, suggesting Barcelona have misused him. The club's ageing squad has forced De Jong into roles that do not suit his strengths.
De Jong is now racing to return for the final four league games and the Champions League last-16 second leg against Napoli. Whether he can salvage his first season in Spain remains to be seen, but the midfielder's potential is undeniable if Barcelona can find the right system for him.
