FC Barcelona continues to adjust its squad in the final days of the transfer window, seeking both sporting and financial solutions. Flick has set very clear priorities, and among them was the future of a footballer whose name had been generating debate in the Barça offices for some time.
The midfielder was once considered a strategic addition, but his sporting impact never met expectations. He arrived as a personal bet by Xavi Hernández, who insisted on his signing. However, his performance was questioned from the beginning by both the fans and some members of the locker room.
The passing months confirmed that first impression: He never really fit into the project. Flick tried to give him opportunities during preseason, but the results were very poor. Finally, the German coach has decided that keeping him was more of a problem than a solution.
Xavi Hernández with Barça | @FCBarcelona
A signing that never convinced
The player was introduced as someone who could bring experience, defensive sacrifice, and balance to the midfield. He was expected to be a reliable backup for the starting midfielders. However, from day one it became clear that his competitive level was far from what was required at Camp Nou.
The fans quickly showed their discontent on social media and at the stadium. The comparison with other low-impact signings fueled the idea that it was a mistake. Within the club, the feeling took hold that the decision was made more out of nostalgia than real planning.
Flick tried to objectively assess his abilities on a daily basis, but he concluded that He didn't have the level needed for his system. Since then, his departure began to be seen as inevitable.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
A financial problem as well
Barça still faces difficulties with financial fair play, and freeing up roster spots is a necessary step to register players. For that reason, The departures of footballers without a key role are a priority in this final stretch of the window.
Although the footballer's salary wasn't among the highest, keeping him meant an expense that was hard to justify. The board understood that terminating his contract was the only viable way to move forward with planning.
In addition, his departure opens the door for the registration of several pending players. Among them stands out Gerard Martín, who Has convinced Flick during preseason and is eagerly awaiting his opportunity.
Gerard Martín earns his place | @FCBarcelona
From Xavi's favorite to Flick's discard
When he arrived, it was a sentimental return, having been trained at La Masia. Xavi considered him an example of professionalism and values, which is why he insisted on his signing. That support made him one of his favorites.
With Xavi's departure and Flick's arrival, The situation changed radically. The German didn't feel the same emotional connection and evaluated only sporting performance and tactical adaptation. Where Xavi saw commitment, Flick saw slowness and limitations.
The path toward his departure was set long before it became official. The club has finally taken the definitive step.
Romeu is leaving Barça | @oriolromeu18
Barça has already announced it: Oriol Romeu will not continue and his contract has been terminated. The midfielder, who had a contract until 2026, leaves grateful but aware of the situation. There was no conflict, just a logical agreement for both parties.
With this move, Barça frees up space and gains financial breathing room to register new players. The fans understand that it was a necessary measure, although there remains the feeling that his signing should never have happened.
