Barcelona forward Ansu Fati has now reportedly decided to depart the club, weeks after initially confirming his intention to stay, and Xavi may be to blame.
The 20-year-old came off the bench in Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Getafe but was the third substitute behind fellow La Masia wingers Abde Ezzalzouli and Lamine Yamal.
According to AS, Fati has now changed his mind about staying, as he has realised that even with Ousmane Dembele leaving, there is limited scope to gain regular game time.
Despite a difficult campaign last season, in which he struggled for form following a long-term injury, he was determined to stay and fight for his place, until now.
Premier League side Arsenal have been linked with a move for him, and it remains to be seen whether the club will now be open to offers for their number 10.
Should Barcelona keep Fati?
The Spain international was regarded as one of La Masia’s best talents when he made his first-team debut aged just 16, but injuries have hampered his progress despite his world-class potential.
It now seems that Xavi, who once described him as “extraordinary” prefers Raphinha, Abde, Ferran Torres, Yamal, or using one of Pedri or Gavi out wide rather than Fati, who was impressive in pre-season.
With the upcoming arrival of Vitor Roque in January, Fati will have his chances further limited, but giving up on an elite talent like him at such an early age could be a mistake.
A loan move could be ideal for the winger, and if he can return to his best form, perhaps at another La Liga club, he could return as a starter next season.
However, the financial struggles at Barcelona now mean that if a significant offer arrives for him, the club may be tempted to take it. Whilst it may resemble good business, and pure profit in terms of financial fair play, selling one of the brightest academy talents, and the player who took Lionel Messi’s number 10 shirt, may not sit well with some fans.