Barça Tied 3-3 Against Inter Milan at Estadi Olímpic. It was a thrilling match, with emotions running high until the end. But beyond the result, there was another focus of attention.
One of the fans' most beloved players warmed up for a long time on the sidelines. He seemed ready to come on in the final minutes. But Hansi Flick decided not to give him a single minute.
His absence caused comments in the stands. Some even interpreted that detail as a silent farewell. On the bench, the feeling was one of resignation.
Observers from Arabia
Representatives from Al-Nassr were present in Montjuïc. They came specifically to closely follow this player. It wasn't the first time they had done so.
The Saudi club already tried to sign him last summer. At that time, the player rejected the proposal without hesitation. But the situation is different now.
His prominence in the team has completely disappeared. Flick doesn't see him as part of his medium-term project. The club knows it.
He has only played 184 minutes all season. The days when he was an undisputed starter are long gone. Now he doesn't even enter the usual rotations.
His agent, Jorge Mendes, has already started conversations. Al-Nassr has put an offer of around 15 million euros on the table. Barça won't put up any obstacles.
The player wants minutes and continuity. In Barcelona, he finds neither. Arabia offers him a different project.
Cristiano Ronaldo, an Additional Incentive
There, an important contract, stability, and a new beginning await him. Additionally, he would have the opportunity to share the locker room with Cristiano Ronaldo. An idol who marked his childhood.
The player's entourage confirms that negotiations are very advanced. His departure is a matter of days, not weeks. The club seeks to close the deal before the end of the term.
The fans received the news with a mix of sadness and understanding. Many still remember him as Messi's natural heir. But injuries and pressure took their toll.
A Gesture from Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal was one of the first to find out. The young winger publicly showed his support in the locker room. He had already given him the number 10 jersey before.
Wednesday's scene was significant. They both shared conversation and laughter during the warm-up. It seemed like a wordless farewell.
Montjuïc applauded his attitude, even without playing. The fans don't forget what he represented. But they also understand that it's time to close a cycle.
Barça needs to free up salary mass and make room in the squad. This departure, although painful, can be useful for all parties. There are no hard feelings.
His destination in Saudi Arabia marks a new beginning. Soccer gives second chances. He wants to seize his.
Yes, the player who will leave shortly is Ansu Fati. The one who was once the '10', the heir to the throne. Today, he leaves in silence... but with a new story to write.