FC Barcelona has been one of the most spectacular teams in European soccer this season. Their style, prominence, and young talent have shaped a project full of hope. However, it wasn't enough to reach the Champions League final.
The sports management acknowledges that more experience and imbalance are needed to compete with the giants. Therefore, they are already working on signings to help enhance the locker room's gems. Lamine Yamal, for example, needs established references by his side.
Raphinha, a brilliant figure in the midst of an ambitious Barça
One of the big names of the blaugrana campaign has been Raphinha. The Brazilian has shown an impressive version, both in statistics and influence on the game. Some even place him among the possible candidates for the Ballon d'Or.
But not even his great level has been enough for Barça to achieve the desired consistency in big matches. Therefore, the club considers that it must strengthen the attack with a profile that provides speed, goals, and the ability to break through stalled matches.
That's where the name of Antony, current footballer of Real Betis, comes in. Since his arrival, he has become one of the sensations of LaLiga. His ability to unbalance, his offensive vision, and his latest goal have catapulted him as one of the most desired players of the moment.
Barça has been closely following his performances for weeks. Flick considers him an ideal reinforcement to expand the team's offensive options. However, the operation doesn't seem as simple as initially thought.
Betis stands firm and wants to keep him
At Benito Villamarín, they are delighted with Antony. His performance has been key to the team's good results. Therefore, Betis's management is working to extend his contract and make him one of the pillars of the project.
The biggest obstacle is that the player's rights still belong to Manchester United. The English club will have the final say on his future this summer. But everything points to Antony himself already having made his choice.
Meanwhile, Barça wants to make a quality leap in Europe, Betis wants to establish itself as an alternative in Spain. The definitive signing of Antony would be a statement of intent by the Andalusian club. And a hard blow for the blaugrana team.
Barça's sports management has him on the wish list, but they are beginning to accept reality. Raphinha, who shares a position with his compatriot, has also understood that it will be difficult to convince him. The player has settled in well in Seville... and doesn't want to move.
He doesn't see himself outside Villamarín
According to sources close to the player's environment, his desire is to stay at Betis. The club has given him confidence, minutes, and prominence, something he would hardly have at Barça. Moreover, his entourage believes that another year in LaLiga would be positive for his growth.
At Camp Nou, the feeling is one of resignation. It won't be the first time a target slips away due to the player's will. Now, it's time to turn the page and keep looking for alternatives that fit the sports and economic plan.
The market will dictate the immediate future of both clubs. Barça continues to aspire to strengthen itself to reign in Europe again. Betis, meanwhile, wants to show that they can retain top-level talent.
And although Barça's interest was real, Antony has already made his decision. He will play at Betis... and Raphinha won't be able to prevent it.