21 Frenkie de Jong

Frenkie de Jong was born on May 12, 1997, in Gorinchem, Netherlands, and grew up in Arkel. His parents, Marjon Schuchhard-de Bruijn and John de Jong, named him after the British pop band Frankie Goes to Hollywood. He developed an early passion for football, joining local club ASV Arkel at six years old. By eight, he was scouted by Willem II, where he progressed through their youth system.

Club Career

Willem II

De Jong signed his first professional contract with Willem II in 2013. He made his Eredivisie debut on May 10, 2015, in a 1–0 victory over ADO Den Haag.

Ajax: Breakthrough and European Stardom

In 2015, Ajax secured De Jong’s signature for a symbolic €1 fee, with a sell-on clause. Initially loaned back to Willem II, he returned to Ajax in 2016 and gradually cemented his place in the squad.

During the 2018–19 season, De Jong became a key figure in Ajax’s domestic double-winning campaign and their remarkable UEFA Champions League run, which saw them eliminate Real Madrid and Juventus before reaching the semi-finals. His performances earned him the Eredivisie Player of the Season award and a place in the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season.

Barcelona: A New Challenge

Barcelona secured De Jong’s services in January 2019 for €75 million, with his transfer becoming official in July. He made his competitive debut on August 16, 2019, in a 0–1 loss to Athletic Bilbao.

A defining moment in his Barcelona career came in the 2021 Copa del Rey final, where he scored and provided two assists in a 4–0 win over Athletic Bilbao. Following Sergio Busquets’ departure in 2023, De Jong was named Barcelona’s fourth captain.

International Career

De Jong made his Netherlands senior debut in 2018 and quickly became an essential player. He played a pivotal role in the inaugural UEFA Nations League, helping the Dutch finish as runners-up. He also represented the Netherlands in UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he scored his first World Cup goal against Qatar. Unfortunately, an ankle injury ruled him out of Euro 2024.

Playing Style: The Modern Total Footballer

De Jong is celebrated for his versatility, often deployed as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, or even a center-back. His intelligence on the ball, dribbling ability, and passing range have drawn comparisons to legends like Xavi, Iniesta, and even Johan Cruyff. His ability to dictate play and progress the ball makes him one of the most sought-after midfielders in the world.

Personal Life

De Jong wears the number 21 jersey in honor of his late grandfather. He has been in a relationship with Mikky Kiemeney since high school, and they married in May 2024. The couple welcomed their son, Miles, in November 2023.