Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has criticized the media for their coverage of his salary and rumored summer departure. Amid speculation linking him with a move to alleviate the club’s financial struggles, de Jong reaffirmed his commitment to Barcelona and dismissed recent reports regarding his earnings as inaccurate.
During a press conference, he expressed his frustration: “Honestly, I’m getting quite irritated lately. I’m very angry about the things you (media) write or say about me. There are numerous stories that are simply untrue, and I can’t comprehend it. Some of you consistently fabricate falsehoods, and I don’t understand how you’re not ashamed of it.
There’s extensive discussion about my contract and salary, with a lot of smoke and mirrors and plenty of lies. You in the media claim I earn around €40m per year… that’s really far from the truth. While I won’t disclose exact figures, it’s simply dishonest. I’m genuinely happy here. Barcelona was and still is the club of my dreams. I’m not content with the press and the atmosphere surrounding the club because, as I’ve repeatedly stated, it’s rife with falsehoods.”
According to reports in Spain, Barcelona has allegedly given De Jong an ultimatum: sign a new contract or present an offer for his sale in the summer. While Tottenham, Manchester United, and PSG have all been mentioned as potential suitors for the Netherlands international, it appears he is currently uninterested in a move. However, Barcelona’s precarious financial position leaves them susceptible to substantial offers for key players, as they must generate revenue to meet La Liga’s financial regulations for the 2024-25 season.
Xavi’s team is presently in Italy, gearing up for the initial leg of their Champions League last 16 clash against Napoli on Wednesday. The Nerazzurri underwent a managerial change just 48 hours before the match, parting ways with Walter Mazzarri and appointing Francesco Calzona.