In the world of football, Frenkie de Jong has emerged as a revered figure celebrated for his outstanding skills and adaptability as a central midfielder for the Netherlands.
His contributions have been notable both at Barcelona in La Liga and as a key player for the Netherlands national team.
Regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world, he is known for his vision, passing, dribbling, and technique, along with his strong defensive abilities and his attacking prowess.
During his breakthrough season, De Jong agreed to sign for Barcelona in January 2019, leading him to be signed for the club in July, for a fee worth €75 million. De Jong was selected for the 2019 FIFA FIFPro World11 and was one of three Dutch players to feature in it for the first time in five years.
De Jong made his senior international debut for the Netherlands in September 2018. He became a starter in the inaugural UEFA Nations League, in which Netherlands finished runners-up. He also represented the side at UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Frenkie de Jong Bio
- Full Name: Frenkie de Jong
- Date of Birth: 12 May 1997
- Place of Birth: Gorinchem, Netherlands
- Professional Debut: 2015
- Jersey Number: 21
- Position: Central midfielder
Frenkie de Jong: The Early Years of “El Salvador”
A little boy’s career with football started in the charming village of Arkel, located in the centre of the Netherlands. At the tender age of six, Frenkie de Jong made his debut on the pitch under the careful supervision of his father, who also registered him with the local amateur team, ASV Arkel.
As Frenkie refined his abilities on the verdant fields of Arkel, scouts from the esteemed professional football team Willem II soon noticed his talent. He started a new chapter in his football journey at the age of eight, moving from the comfortable surroundings of ASV Arkel to Willem II.
As Frenkie engaged himself in the demanding training schedule and competitive atmosphere of Willem II’s youth academy, his potential blossomed.
Frankie’s love for the beautiful game bloomed on the sacred grounds of Willem II’s facilities, which he shared with RKC. This laid the groundwork for his future triumphs on the big stage of professional football.
Willem II: The Journey Begins
Frenkie de Jong, a product of Willem II’s youth system, embarked on his footballing journey within the club’s nurturing environment. After years of dedication and development, the momentous occasion arrived on May 10, 2015. Just shy of his eighteenth birthday, de Jong was handed his Eredivisie debut against ADO Den Haag.
Stepping onto the pitch amidst palpable anticipation, de Jong showcased his burgeoning talent as he replaced Terell Ondaan in the 68th minute. Despite his brief appearance, de Jong’s impact was palpable, contributing to Willem II’s hard-fought 1-0 victory on home soil.
Ajax: The Early Stage
In a significant move at the onset of the season, Ajax secured the services of Frenkie de Jong on August 22, 2015. The talented midfielder inked a four-year deal with the club, with an intriguing clause: a symbolic transfer fee of €1, accompanied by a 10% sell-on bonus.
However, de Jong’s immediate impact would have to wait, as Ajax made the decision to loan him back to Willem II until December 31, 2015. During this interim period, de Jong made a solitary substitute appearance for Willem II in an Eredivisie clash against PEC Zwolle.
Despite the limited game time during his loan spell, de Jong’s potential was evident, laying the groundwork for what would soon become a pivotal chapter in his burgeoning career at Ajax.
Development and first-team regular
Frenkie de Jong’s early years at Ajax were characterized by a gradual integration into the first team. After returning to the club in January 2016, he showcased his prowess with Ajax II in the 2015–16 Eerste Divisie, earning the Talent of the Season award the following year for his standout performances.
De Jong made his senior debut against Sparta Rotterdam, marking the beginning of his ascent in Ajax’s ranks. His versatility saw him deployed as both a center-back and central midfielder, contributing to the team’s success in league and European competitions.
During the 2018–19 season, de Jong emerged as a linchpin in Ajax’s midfield, earning accolades such as Eredivisie Player of the Month and widespread praise from football pundits. His instrumental role in Ajax’s domestic double triumph and impressive displays in the UEFA Champions League, including a standout performance against Tottenham Hotspur, solidified his status as one of Europe’s top midfield talents.
Despite Ajax’s heartbreak in the Champions League semi-final, de Jong’s individual brilliance did not go unnoticed, culminating in his selection to the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season and recognition as the tournament’s midfielder of the season.
De Jong’s meteoric rise at Ajax epitomized his unwavering commitment and exceptional talent, laying the groundwork for a promising career at the pinnacle of world football.
FC Barcelona – The Formation of a Mega Star
Frenkie de Jong’s journey to Barcelona commenced on January 23, 2019, when La Liga giants Barcelona secured his signature on a five-year contract, effective from July 1, 2019, for an initial fee of €75 million. Despite interest from other European powerhouses like Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, and Manchester United, de Jong ultimately chose Barcelona as his next destination.
His competitive debut for Barcelona came on August 16, 2019, in a disappointing 0–1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao on the opening day of the season. However, de Jong quickly established himself as a key figure in the team, showcasing his immense talent and versatility on the pitch.
One of his standout moments came in the 2021 Copa del Rey final, where Barcelona clinched a resounding 4–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. De Jong played a pivotal role, scoring a goal in the 63rd minute and providing two assists, cementing his status as a key contributor to Barcelona’s success.
As Barcelona underwent transitions in its leadership, de Jong’s influence continued to grow. On July 21, 2023, he assumed the mantle of leadership, becoming the fourth captain of Barcelona following the departure of club captain Sergio Busquets.
Frenkie de Jong’s tenure at Barcelona has been marked by stellar performances, crucial contributions, and a steady rise through the ranks, reaffirming his status as one of the brightest talents in world football.
Frenkie de Jong: Career and Stats
| Club | Season | Apps | Goals |
| Willem II | 2014–15 | 1 | 0 |
| 2015–16 | 2 | 0 | |
| Jong Ajax | 2015–16 | 15 | 2 |
| 2016–17 | 31 | 6 | |
| Ajax | 2016–17 | 11 | 1 |
| 2017–18 | 26 | 1 | |
| 2018–19 | 52 | 3 | |
| Barcelona | 2019–20 | 42 | 2 |
| 2020–21 | 51 | 7 | |
| 2021–22 | 47 | 4 | |
| 2022–23 | 43 | 2 | |
| 2023–24 | 28 | 2 | |
| Total | 349 | 30 | |
International:
| National team | Year | Apps | Goals |
| Netherlands | 2018 | 5 | 0 |
| 2019 | 10 | 1 | |
| 2020 | 7 | 0 | |
| 2021 | 16 | 0 | |
| 2022 | 12 | 1 | |
| 2023 | 4 | 0 | |
| Total | 54 | 2 | |
Personal life
Frenkie de Jong’s personal life reflects his deep-rooted connection to his hometown and family. Born in Gorinchem and raised in Arkel, a picturesque town in South Holland, de Jong’s football journey began at a tender age in the local community. A poignant tribute to his grandfather, who shares his birthdate on April 21, is evident in de Jong’s choice of jersey number 21 throughout his professional career.
Beyond the football pitch, de Jong found love in high school, where he crossed paths with his now-fiancée, Mikky Kiemeney. Their relationship, which blossomed in 2014, culminated in a heartwarming engagement announcement in July 2022. The couple welcomed their first child, Miles de Jong, into the world on November 21, 2023, marking a new chapter in their journey together.
Amidst the highs and lows of professional football, de Jong finds solace and joy in the warmth of his familial bonds and the unwavering support of his loved ones.
Frenkie de Jong’s Net Worth
Frenkie de Jong’s financial standing as of 2024 is a testament to his illustrious career in professional football. With an estimated net worth of $18 million, de Jong has secured his place among the elite earners in the sport.
In addition to his salary from FC Barcelona, de Jong further bolsters his income through endorsements and various other revenue streams associated with his status as a high-profile athlete.
FAQ’s
Q- Are Frenkie de Jong and Luuk de Jong brothers?
No report or evidence suggests a link between Frankie and Luuk de Jong. Even though the players have many similarities.
Q- Is Frenkie de Jong leaving Barcelona?
Xavi, the Current Barcelona Manager, doesn’t believe Frenkie de Jong will leave Barcelona: “He is comfortable at the club” says Xavi.
Q- What position does Frenkie de Jong play?
Frenkie de Jong currently plays as a Central midfielder
Q- Is Luuk de Jong related to Frenkie de Jong?
Despite the shared surname and the realm of football as a commonality, there is no substantial evidence to support a familial link between Luuk De Jong and Frenkie De Jong.
Q- Will Frenkie de Jong join Manchester United?
No. Not at the moment as the Dutchman fully committed to FC Barcelona.
Also Read: FC Barcelona: Players, History, Records, Achievements, and Future Goals