Frenkie de Jong denies he earns €37m a year as Barcelona star also rubbishes claims that he refused to have surgery in sensational interview

During a La Liga match against Celta Vigo in September 2023, De Jong suffered a serious injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis in his right ankle. This was the beginning of a difficult spell for the midfielder who went on to pick up two more knocks in the same area.

De Jong made a comeback from the initial setback during a match in March 2024 at San Mames against Athletic Club but suffered a blow on the same ankle. His troubles were further compounded in El Clásico on April 21, 2024, at the Santiago Bernabéu when he clashed with Fede Valverde which aggravated the same ankle injury.

De Jong addressed rumours that Barcelona had urged him to undergo surgery, which he reportedly refused. The midfielder refuted these claims, explaining that both he and the club mutually agreed to pursue traditional healing methods rather than going under the knife.

“Throughout my recovery I have chosen to stay silent" he explained in an interview with Barca One. "It is not true that the club told me I had to have an operation, and I didn't want one. Because everyone at the club, the doctors and myself all agreed that surgery was not the best option. It has been very frustrating for a player who lives and breathes football to be out of action for another lengthy period."

De Jong also spoke out against reports that suggest his annual salary at Barcelona is €37 million (£31m/$41), which if true, is a significant burden on the coffers of a club that are struggling for financial stability.

"It is not true that I earn 37 million" he insisted aiming to dispel the circulating misinformation about his contract. "That's a very big figure and is a long way off what I really earn."

De Jong revealed that he has been working diligently to overcome the mental challenges that have arisen from the recurring ankle injury and is nearing a full recovery which will allow him to rejoin his teammates on the field.

"Having three injuries to the same ankle caused me a bit of mental trauma," De Jong admitted. But I am gradually regaining my confidence to kick the ball hard and go strong into tackles... From the outside, the team looks full of energy and quality. I am really keen to be part of that and offer my very best."

Barcelona return to action against Young Boys in the Champions League on Tuesday evening.