The Dutch players’ union has voiced its criticism of Barcelona for the manner in which they are treating their countryman, midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
De Jong has had a long summer filled with speculation over his future. It seemed that a move to Manchester United was all but sealed, but the Dutchman wants to stay at Barcelona.
Recently, Chelsea entered the fray, with De Jong willing to go to London. However, the Blues are not willing to match the fee that United have offered, per Metro.
In Spain, De Jong’s situation is getting ever more confusing. The Catalan giants requested that the midfielder take a 40% wage cut if he wants to stay at the Camp Nou, which De Jong refused. What made this all the more unbelievable was that Barca still owe him £17 million in deferred wages.
On the pitch, life is not looking any more promising for the Dutchman. Barcelona boss Xavi suggested that Frenkie de Jong could be utilised at centre-back in his system next season. So, as well as being underpaid, De Jong could be out of position, too.
In light of all the madness, the Dutch players’ union has spoken on the matter that is leaving fans perplexed across the world.
VVCS talks Frenkie de Jong – Barcelona debacle
Evgeniy Levchenko, who is the chairman of the Dutch players’ union (VVCS), voiced his concern over the Frenkie de Jong situation.
“I think a union should protect all players,” explained Levchenko, quotes via Voetbal Primeur. “Now, a player is cornered by a club and chased away. Then it is up to an international union, such as FIFPro, to stand up.
“FC Barcelona will invoke sporting grounds, but it is disastrous for a young player’s career. That makes it a kind of extortion.”
Levchenko also branded Barca’s handling of the saga as “insane”. When asked if he thinks Frenkie de Jong should take a wage cut for Barcelona, the VVCS chairman was very clear.
“I would say, ‘no’. FC Barcelona has full responsibility. The club’s long-term policy is dramatic. It is crazy when players have to pay for the financial mess.”
These strong words echo the sentiments of Manchester United legend Gary Neville.
Gary Neville weighs in
The Sky Sports pundit took to Twitter to express his opinion on Barcelona’s actions.
“De Jong should consider legal action and all players should be behind him,” fumed Neville. “A club spending fortunes on new players whilst not paying the ones they have under contract their full money is immoral and a breach.
“FIFPro should be all over bullying like this and stop it.”
Whether Frenkie de Jong takes Neville’s advice remains to be seen. With his future completely up in the air, the Dutchman may not want a battle in court to further add to his misery.
In pre-season, De Jong has played in Barca’s last two friendly fixtures, including in their 1-0 El Classico victory. And his career in Spain may not be over just yet. Joan Laporta spoke positively of the Dutchman on Sunday.
“Frenkie de Jong is our player, we really like him,” said Laporta, per Fabrizio Romano. “We received some offers for Frenkie, but we didn’t accept as of now. We want to talk to him and know exactly what he wants.
“The club needs to clarify some aspects of his situation.”
Sadly, this saga shows no sign of reaching an end any time soon.
Featured image credit: Getty