Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, hasn't left any room for doubt. The player who left the club amid controversy, after years of support from the management and the fans, has the doors completely closed. Neither his talent nor his possible availability at zero cost changes the president's firm stance.
Barça Looks Forward
Under Hansi Flick's direction, the club has found a new identity. The current project is based on young and committed talent. Lamine Yamal has established himself as one of the greatest promises in world soccer, while Raphinha has regained his best form and leads the attack with decisive goals and assists.
Ferran Torres, despite the ups and downs, has shown himself to be a versatile piece in Flick's scheme. This is complemented by other young prospects who are ready to make the leap to the first team.
An Exit That Left Wounds
Ousmane Dembélé's move to PSG was much more than a simple transfer. For Barça, his departure represented a betrayal. During his time at the club, the French winger was surrounded by doubts about his commitment, from constant delays in training to his inconsistent performance on the field.
Despite this, Barça always trusted him. Laporta supported him in his worst moments, especially during the long recoveries after his injuries. However, when it seemed he was ready to return that trust, Dembélé chose to accept PSG's offer.
The last straw came when, after his departure, he celebrated with euphoria the goals scored against Barça in European competitions. That gesture sealed his fate and placed him as a "non grata" figure at Camp Nou.
In this context, the possible return of Dembélé has no place. Joan Laporta and Deco have made it clear that the club won't backtrack on its values or planning. Barça's commitment is to build a solid long-term team, with players who represent the culé DNA both on and off the field.
Accepting Dembélé's return would be a step back. His time at the club ended, and he didn't leave the positive impact expected of him after his costly arrival from Borussia Dortmund.
Attack in Full Form
Barça doesn't need to look to the past to strengthen its team. The current attack is in full form. Besides Yamal and Raphinha, the club has alternatives like Ferran Torres and other players from La Masia who are ready to contribute.
Flick's offensive system has consolidated in recent months, showing a balanced and competitive team in all competitions.
Laporta's decision goes beyond sports; for the president, it's a matter of principles. The broken relationship between Dembélé and Barça has no possible repair. Neither PSG nor the player himself have shown gestures that could change the situation.
Moreover, the club's economic management requires caution. Investing resources in a player whose previous stint was marked by inconsistency would be a mistake Laporta isn't willing to make.
Barça Moves Forward without Distractions
While Dembélé faces his own challenges at PSG, Barça continues to advance in its project. Laporta, Deco, and Flick are building a team based on the commitment and values that have always defined the club.
The past won't return to Camp Nou, and Dembélé's figure remains a reminder of what could have been and wasn't. Now, Barça focuses on its future, with a team that promises to return the team to the top of European soccer.
Laporta's message is clear: Barça doesn't need traitors; it needs players committed to its history and vision.