Yahoo Sports Barcelona midfielder facing uncertainty future amid poor form, contract situation
Frenkie de Jong is right now the most talked-about player in Barcelona circles, and not for the right reasons.
The Dutch midfielder has found himself in the midst of a storm of speculation and criticism due to his performances, fitness, and contract disputes.
This has led to overall uncertainty over his future in Catalonia. A recent report from Diario AS has highlighted all these aspects.
De Jong’s poor form
De Jong has only started in two games this season, against Real Sociedad in La Liga and Red Star in the Champions League.
His appearances from the bench have been a mixed bag, with some flashes of brilliance overshadowed by subpar performances in matches against Vigo and Dortmund.
His lack of consistent play has made him a focal point of debate among fans and pundits alike, with many questioning his current role in the team.
Is fitness being a concern?
The real concern, however, lies in De Jong’s physical condition.
After suffering from a syndesmosis injury in his right ankle, which he has battled since last year, there’s uncertainty about whether he has fully recovered.
His decision not to undergo surgery and his admission of still feeling “sensitive” in the ankle have posed question marks over his physical condition.
Uncertainty over de Jong’s fitness was further fueled by the fact that Dutch coach Ronald Koeman did not call him up during the international break.
De Jong’s fractured relationship with Barcelona board
If form and fitness weren’t enough, adding complexity to de Jong’s situation is his contract, which is set to expire in June 2026.
The relationship with the Barcelona board, particularly after the club’s attempt to sell him in 2022, has been strained.
It must be noted that de Jong holds significant leverage with his contract, especially given that he can leave for free in 2026.
Barcelona are working on a renewal and the player himself is reportedly open to extending his contract. But so far, nothing has materialised.
