Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong has denied suggestions that he earns £31million-a-year.
The midfielder hasn’t played since suffering an ankle problem against Real Madrid in April and had previously struggled with injuries last season.
Reports suggested that de Jong’s annual salary at Barcelona is £31million-a-year (€37 million). However, de Jong stated that the figure is ‘a long way off’ what he actually earns.
De Jong told Barcelona’s official website: ‘It is not true that I earn 37 million. That’s a very big figure and is a long way off what I really earn.’
The 27-year-old is now closing in on a return to action and was eager to point out that he didn’t refuse to have surgery.
Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong has denied suggestions that he earns £31million-a-year
The midfielder hasn’t played since suffering an ankle problem against Real Madrid in April
De Jong insisted that it was instead a collective decision that was made between himself, the club and the doctors.
He said: Throughout my recovery I have chosen to stay silent.
‘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 admitted that his injuries caused him ‘mental trauma’ but stated that he is relishing his return to action.
He said: ‘Having three injuries to the same ankle caused me a bit of mental trauma. 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.’
The 27-year-old is closing in on a return to action for Barcelona after his injury struggles
Since joining Barcelona from Ajax in 2019, De Jong has made 213 appearances and has scored 17 goals, while he has provided 21 assists.
He has won one LaLiga title and the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona, who are top of LaLiga, suffered a 4-2 defeat away to Osasuna on Saturday.
