Frenkie de Jong has been a pivotal figure at Barcelona since 2019, amassing nearly 300 appearances for the club. In 2022, he attracted strong interest from Manchester United, then managed by Erik ten Hag, who pushed hard to secure the Dutch midfielder.
Journalist Andy Mitten revealed that ten Hag was confident enough to instruct the club hierarchy to “leave Frenkie in my hands.” For a period, de Jong seriously considered moving to the Premier League under a coach who knew his style well.
Ultimately, de Jong decided to remain at Barcelona, feeling he had unfinished business and ambitions to win more titles in Blaugrana colors. He also looked forward to playing at the fully renovated and packed Spotify Camp Nou. Personal reasons played a decisive role as his family was settled and happy in Barcelona.
Currently recovering from an injury, de Jong is focused on regaining full fitness for the upcoming World Cup. His choice to stay highlights his commitment to the club and desire to complete long-term projects, reassuring fans about his future at Barcelona.