Barça is experiencing turbulent days after the elimination in the Champions League. Amid the collective disappointment, there is also an individual conflict that has erupted behind closed doors. One of the team's most promising players has conveyed a firm decision to his inner circle: he will not continue.
The reason is clear. He feels that he has no place, that his role is irrelevant, and that his career needs a new boost. The lack of playing time has taken its toll, and despite his efforts, he doesn't see signs of trust from the coaching staff.
The footballer has discussed his situation with several teammates. To one in particular, with whom he keeps a very close friendship for years, he confessed the phrase that has already started circulating in the club's corridors. "I want to leave Barça now."
Flick hasn't fully bet on him
The player has fulfilled everything that has been asked of him. He trains at a good level, has improved physically, and has shown a positive attitude. However, Hansi Flick has opted for other options in his position.
The emergence of younger players, combined with the high performance of the starters, has relegated him to the background. In important matches, he hasn't had a prominent role. When he has played, it has been in a testimonial manner.
The message is clear: the player is not part of the main core of the project. That, after years at the club, hurts.
On a personal level, his season has been very difficult, he hasn't scored any goals. He hasn't found the net in an official match for over twelve months. His confidence is at rock bottom, and the pressure has overwhelmed him.
He believes he needs continuity to perform, but that opportunity never came. Those around him see him as downcast, without enthusiasm, and convinced that his time at Barça has ended.
Lamine Yamal, his great confidant
In this delicate moment, the one who is most by his side is Lamine Yamal. They both grew up together in the youth academy and keep a special connection. Lamine has tried to convince him to hold on, to fight to reverse the situation.
But the response has been firm. The player wants to start from scratch, in another environment, with less pressure. He wants to regain the joy of playing and feel important again.
From the sports management, no scenario is ruled out. His current performance doesn't justify a leading role, and the market has already started to move. There is interest from England and also from MLS.
The operation could be solved in the form of a loan, but if a convincing offer arrives, a sale is not ruled out. The club needs to free up salary mass and prepare the squad for the next season.
The player who has broken his silence and asked to leave Barça is none other than Ansu Fati. What was once the great hope of Camp Nou, today he is forced to seek a new opportunity away from home.