FC Barcelona continues to see how some of its talents trained at La Masia leave for the Premier League. This time, it has been Manchester City that has made a significant move.
Gavi, one of Barça's great stars, has seen how his best partner in the midfield has taken a new direction. Pep Guardiola, unable to sign him, has opted for an alternative he already knows well.
Gavi and a future tied to Barça
At 20 years old, Gavi is one of the most important pieces of FC Barcelona. His character, dedication, and talent have made him an indispensable player for the team.
Manchester City had been following him for a while, and Pep Guardiola has always shown admiration for his play style. However, signing him was practically impossible.
Laporta and Deco have made it clear that Gavi is non-transferable. His contract, his clause, and his love for the club made any negotiation attempt unfeasible. Faced with this scenario, Guardiola decided to change strategy.
The Catalan coach has set his sights on another player who was once considered Sergio Busquets's heir. A player who shared the locker room with Gavi and will now try his luck in the Premier League.
This is Nico González, a midfielder with great physical prowess and technical quality that fits perfectly into Manchester City's system.
After his time at Porto, Nico has continued to evolve and has attracted the interest of several European clubs. However, Guardiola has been the quickest and has secured his signing.
60 million and a masterstroke by Barça
Manchester City has decided to pay the 60 million euro release clause to acquire Nico González. What few remember is that Barça still owned 40% of his economic rights. This means they will receive a considerable amount from the operation.
This move has been seen as a masterstroke by the blaugrana board. Without making any effort in the market, the club will receive a significant sum of money that can be used for future signings.
For many Barça fans, Nico's departure marks the end of a story that could have been different. When he debuted in the first team under Ronald Koeman's orders, it was thought he would be Busquets's natural successor.
However, the lack of opportunities and competition in the midfield led him to seek minutes in other teams. His loan to Valencia and then his transfer to Porto were signs that his future was far from Camp Nou.
Now, with his signing for Manchester City, his return to Barça seems a practically discarded possibility.
Gavi loses his best partner
Gavi and Nico shared the locker room at La Masia and in the first team, forming a duo with a lot of potential. Now, the Andalusian will have to continue his path at Barça without one of his best teammates. Meanwhile, Guardiola adds a new talent to his squad, and Barça takes advantage of the operation to strengthen its economy.
Gavi's future remains tied to Camp Nou, but his best partner has already taken another path.