Boluwatife Kehinde
In an era where loyalty is rare in football, Frenkie de Jong has once again put his heart where his boots are at FC Barcelona. The Dutch midfielder has extended his stay at the Catalan club until 2029, reinforcing his commitment to a project he believes in deeply, despite years of media speculation and financial pressure behind the scenes.
The 28-year-old joined Barca from Ajax in 2019 and has since endured both turbulence and triumph, including two La Liga titles and a pair of Copa del Rey wins. Through it all, De Jong has emerged as a pillar in midfield, especially under new coach Hansi Flick, where his partnership with Pedri Gonzalez has brought fresh fluidity to Barcelona’s game.
“This is more than a club for me. It’s a dream I’ve been living since I was a child,” De Jong said during a press conference. “And I’m not finished dreaming yet. I want to win more here.”
Despite being one of Barca’s top earners, a point that’s drawn frequent media attention, De Jong used the occasion to push back on inflated reports about his salary. “Those numbers were exaggerated. They’ve shaped the way some people look at me, and not in a good way,” he stated, while confirming a pay cut will take effect from the 2026/27 season as part of the new agreement.
His contract renewal marks a quiet victory for both club and player. In 2022, Barcelona explored the option of selling De Jong to ease financial strains. But the midfielder stood firm, choosing to fight for his place rather than seek greener pastures.
“I never felt undervalued by my team-mates or the club, it was more about what was said outside,” De Jong reflected, referencing the media storm that often surrounded his name.
Now entering his seventh season with over 250 appearances in blaugrana colors, De Jong’s long-term commitment is not just a contract, it’s a statement. In a time of uncertainty for Barcelona, he remains a rare constant, blending quality, loyalty, and belief in the club’s future.
