It's still a good five months until Frenkie de Jong finally dons the blaugrana of Barcelona, but the 21-year-old may already be a hero to many Cules after a sizzling performance for Ajax saw the Amsterdam club produce not just a remarkable turnaround in the Champions League, but an absolute annihilation of holders Real Madrid, and on their own turf at that!
A clip of midfielder de Jong leaving the Ballon d’Or holder Luka Modric in his dust on the pitch truly announced the exciting young player on the continent.
In January, Barca purchased de Jong back in January for a reported €75 million fee, which is subject to rise considerably (around €11 million, taking the total up to around €86 million) with numerous bonuses and conditions.
The European giants beat off competition from such sides as Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain for his signature, and though his brobdingnagian fee certainly raised a few eyebrows at the time, it’s looking likely that he’s worth every penny.
Frenkie de Jong completed 29 of his 32 passes in the first half, more than any other player in the game, and went on to gain a 90% pass accuracy.
He won four out his four tackles won, made three important clearances and was successful in taking on opponents in the heart of midfield.
Both Ajax and Barcelona fans were delighted with de Jong’s performance this week in the Spanish capital, the latter truly getting the last few laughs over Los Blancos in a brilliant week for Ernesto Valverde’s side, that saw them dump Real out of the Copa del Rey, and end their weak aspirations for La Liga glory;
Barcelona have gotten themselves a superb player for next 10 years. @love_tikitaka
Had a fantastic game, can’t wait till he joins @Al3xVart
Already using this place as his play ground. Wait until he joins barca @Conorjamie7
Could be the new Declan Rice… @TontNoHair
He’s gonna run the show at Barca @jak_graham
After almost four years at Ajax, Barcelona have tied de Jong down to a five-year-contract. It’s looking like the Dutchman won’t be waiting too long to hear his name ring out around Camp Nou.
You can view the footage of de Jong running the show at the Bernabeu below.