For weeks, his name was a main topic in the offices of major European clubs. Especially in England, where Manchester City made a strong move to secure his signing. The offer included a top-level salary, a leading role, and direct backing from Pep Guardiola.
Those close to the player never denied the interest, but they requested complete discretion in the talks. Joan Laporta and Deco were aware of the risk, although they kept hoping to retain a key piece. Meanwhile, Hansi Flick considered him essential for the team's immediate future.
Pep Guardiola | @ManCityES
Guardiola wanted him as a successor
Guardiola had personally given the green light to finalize the signing as soon as possible. He believed his fit in City's system was perfect due to his versatility, pressing, and tactical vision. In addition, he saw in him an ideal profile to lead the generational transition in the midfield.
Manchester offered a five-season contract with financial terms that were hard to refuse. The salary exceeded €10 million ($10.8 million) net per year, plus variable bonuses for performance and titles. But the most important thing was the promise of continuity, playing time, and full trust.
Pep Guardiola | Premier League
While City pushed hard, Barça didn't stand idly by. Laporta and Deco knew losing him would be a major blow to the project. They opted for a counteroffensive structured around financial, emotional, and sporting aspects.
The talks were intense and secret, away from the media spotlight. The player asked for time to consider all scenarios, with a clear head and no pressure. He didn't want to rush, but he also didn't want to go through another summer marked by uncertainty.
Manchester City | @BernardoCSilva
The decision was firm: he stays
The answer came this week, and it surprised even the directors themselves. Against all odds, the player rejected Manchester City's offer. He is betting on Hansi Flick's project, on sporting growth, and on his role within the locker room.
The most striking thing wasn't just the "no" to Guardiola, but the resounding "yes" to Barça. A gesture reminiscent of another era, when the badge meant more than any check. It reinforces the idea that this club can still win over its own talents.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
The agreement includes a contract that runs until June 30, 2030. His salary will be €6 million ($6.5 million) net per season, with variables that could raise it to €9 million ($9.7 million) annually. In addition, he will have a €1 billion ($1.08 billion) release clause, a total safeguard.
In sporting terms, Flick has told him that he will be one of the team's pillars. His role will grow in responsibility, presence on the field, and leadership in key moments. He won't just be important; he'll be decisive.
Identity, loyalty and future
The decision has not only sporting value, but also symbolic significance. In an era where stars change clubs at the first impulse, this gesture carries weight. Barça, despite all its financial difficulties, is still able to retain top-level talent.
Laporta celebrated it privately as an institutional victory, beyond the market or immediate performance. In the locker room, the news was met with applause and relief: a key piece is staying. He is doing so not for money, but for love of the club and faith in the project.
Gavi with Barça | @FCBarcelona
There was speculation about many names. There was talk of young prospects, established academy players, and possible multi-million sales. But the protagonist of this story is Gavi, who has renewed with FC Barcelona until 2030 and has said no to Guardiola.
