Frenkie de Jong Talks Disappointment Over Trophy Count at Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong, Barcelona’s talented midfielder, has admitted his frustration with the lack of silverware since his arrival at the club. Despite his initial excitement and belief that he would win more titles, the 27-year-old Dutchman has been disappointed with his trophy tally, which includes only one La Liga, one Copa del Rey, and one Spanish Supercopa since joining in 2019.

Reflecting on his Barcelona Career

De Jong, who joined Barcelona from Ajax with high hopes, reflected on his journey during an interview with Voetbal International. He shared his feelings about the expectations he had upon signing his contract and how reality has fallen short of those expectations:

“When I signed my contract here, I did not think that after five years I would have won only one La Liga, one Copa del Rey, and one Supercopa. I thought at least double that, so in terms of trophies, it’s disappointing.”

While De Jong continues to cherish playing for Barça, he acknowledges that not everything has gone as imagined. He recognizes that not all aspects of football, or life, can be ideal:

“Barça was and is my dream club. As a little boy, I wanted to play here. I still enjoy every day at this club, but as in real life, not everything is as ideal as you imagine.”

The Struggle with Injuries

One of the main challenges De Jong has faced is his ongoing battle with ankle injuries, which have affected his performances over the last two seasons. He admitted the toll this has taken on him mentally, describing it as a “mental trauma.” Despite his struggles, he remains focused on making a successful return to full fitness:

“The injuries have been a mental trauma for me. I need time to get back to my best, but the feeling is very strong that I have to make it happen now.”

Since returning from his latest injury in October, De Jong has started only two matches, and was left out of Barcelona’s starting lineup for the last two games before the winter break.

Future at Barcelona: Uncertainty Looms

Looking ahead, De Jong is at a crossroads in his Barcelona career. With his contract running until 2026, he has been faced with questions about his future at the club. While he has turned down offers to leave in the past, such as one from Manchester United in 2022, De Jong admits he may consider moving on if he feels he cannot contribute at the required level.

“People often think I want to stay at Barcelona forever because I live so nicely here alongside football. That is true, but it is secondary to what happens on the pitch,” De Jong said.

He further clarified his stance, saying:

“If I notice that I can’t show enough here, that I am not contributing, or that I can’t win anything with the team, I wouldn’t be here anymore.”

Focused on Getting Back to Full Fitness

De Jong has emphasized that his current focus is to prove himself on the pitch again and regain his spot in the team. With the ongoing competition at Barcelona, he knows that time is of the essence:

“If I don’t play in a few weeks, it’s my own fault. It really has to happen now.”

With Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona’s manager, reportedly patient with his recovery, De Jong’s future will likely depend on how quickly he can return to his best form and contribute to the team’s success moving forward.

Summary of Key Points:

• Disappointing Trophy Count: De Jong has won only one La Liga, one Copa del Rey, and one Supercopa during his five years at Barcelona.
• Injury Struggles: Ongoing ankle issues have hindered De Jong’s performances and mental resilience.
• Uncertain Future: De Jong may leave if he feels he cannot contribute to the team’s success.
• Recovery Focus: The midfielder is committed to regaining full fitness and proving himself to Barcelona.

Frenkie de Jong’s next few months could define both his Barcelona career and his long-term future at the club.