Barcelona is the team of my dreams – De Jong reiterates desire for Camp Nou stay

Frenkie de Jong described Barcelona as the “team of my dreams” and reiterated his intention is to remain with the Blaugrana for the foreseeable future.

Netherlands star De Jong was the subject of one of the biggest sagas of European football’s summer transfer window.

Manchester United were reportedly keen on bringing De Jong to Old Trafford for a reunion with his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, while it was said Barca were keen to cash in and help alleviate some of their financial issues.

A move failed to materialise, but rumours persist that United will launch a fresh bid for the 25-year-old at the end of the season.

However, speaking to TV3, De Jong seemingly remains unmoved in his desire to stay at Camp Nou, a stadium where renovation work will take place until 2026 – the same year De Jong’s contract is due to expire.

“Hopefully I can play in the new Camp Nou. Barcelona has always been the club of my dreams and I want to stay here for many years,” De Jong said.

“For me, the Camp Nou is the most beautiful stadium in the world. The plans for the stadium are very good. To continue here for many years. Barca is the team of my dreams.”

#ElClásico is <48 hours away! pic.twitter.com/A59d3reOif

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 18, 2023

De Jong’s immediate focus is on Sunday’s Clasico clash against Real Madrid at Camp Nou, where a victory would leave Xavi’s men 12 points clear of Los Blancos.

“Playing in a Clasico is a very difficult feeling to explain,” De Jong added.

“When I was a child, I dreamed of doing it with Barca and now I can do it. It’s a very important game for the fans and also for the players, a game that can decide a league.”