Frenkie de Jong reflects on Barcelona loyalty and World Cup dream

Published: 02 May 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

At Barcelona’s training ground under a warm Catalan sun, Frenkie de Jong reflects on a journey that began more than a decade ago with a teenage trip to Camp Nou and has now evolved into one of loyalty, leadership, and near-misses on football’s biggest stage.

The Netherlands international, now the longest-serving player in the current FC Barcelona squad, has become a central figure under manager Hansi Flick. Fluent in Spanish and deeply integrated into the club’s culture, De Jong’s story is one of patience, persistence, and emotional highs and lows.

He recalls vividly his first visit to Barcelona in 2015, when he watched the team of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suárez dominate Real Betis at Camp Nou. “It was a special trip,” he said, remembering sitting in the stands as Messi marked his 500th appearance with a goal. Years later, he would go on to share the pitch with those same stars, fulfilling a childhood dream that once felt distant.

Since joining from Ajax in 2019, De Jong has grown into a key midfielder and leader at the club. Last week, he became the Dutch player with the most appearances for Barcelona, surpassing the record held by fellow countryman Phillip Cocu. His trophy cabinet now includes multiple La Liga titles, Copa del Rey wins, and Spanish Super Cups, reflecting his steady rise within one of Europe’s most demanding clubs.

Despite his success, De Jong admits the journey has not always been smooth. During a difficult financial period at Barcelona, he was heavily linked with moves to Manchester United and Chelsea FC. However, he chose to stay, signing a long-term contract extension until 2029.

“Of course, it crossed my mind at times,” he said, referring to the transfer speculation. “But as long as I am good enough to play here and the club is competing for major trophies, there is no reason to leave.”

De Jong also spoke about how media narratives shaped public perception during that period, particularly surrounding reports of his wages and contract situation. He highlighted how commentary and reporting can influence how players are viewed, even when details are inaccurate.

Beyond club football, De Jong’s international career with the Netherlands national football team has also been marked by frustration. A serious ankle injury suffered during a clásico against Real Madrid ruled him out of major tournaments, including Euro 2024. He described watching from the sidelines as emotionally difficult, especially when unable to contribute on the pitch.

“There is pride when the team does well, but also sadness because you want to be part of it,” he said, reflecting on his absence from major international competitions.

Looking ahead, De Jong remains focused on the upcoming World Cup, where he hopes to play a leading role. He believes the current Netherlands squad has significant potential but stresses the importance of turning that potential into success.

“Since my time with the national team, I think we now have one of the most promising squads,” he said. “But we need to become the best team.”

At Barcelona, De Jong continues to play a vital role both on and off the pitch, forming strong connections with teammates including loan signing Marcus Rashford. He praised Rashford’s pace and attacking impact, noting how his presence creates more space for midfield play.

He also emphasised the balance within the Barcelona squad, which blends academy graduates with experienced international signings. Under Flick’s leadership, the team has shown renewed energy and ambition as it pushes for more silverware.

For De Jong, the motivation remains simple: competing at the highest level for a club he once dreamed of joining as a teenager. His journey from a young spectator at Camp Nou to a central figure in Barcelona’s midfield continues to define his career, marked by loyalty, resilience, and unfinished international ambition.