FC Barcelona keeps adjusting its squad with an eye on the future and the development of its young talents. With Hansi Flick on the bench, the demands are at their highest in every area, especially in the attack. The club wants to prevent its young prospects from getting stuck, which is why it's already working on ways for them to get minutes at other teams.
In this planning, the sporting management is considering the possibility of some players trained at La Masia going out on loan. The goal is none other than to guarantee them continuity in a demanding environment and keep total control over their development. The strategy is clear: for the footballers to gain experience elsewhere so they can return better prepared to Camp Nou.
No place in the first team
This is where Dani Rodríguez comes in, a 20-year-old winger who could be heading to Valencia CF in the coming days. The footballer, under contract until 2027, has just recovered from a right shoulder injury he suffered during his debut with the first team last season. However, despite his quality and potential, Flick has already told him that his minutes would be limited this season due to strong competition from players like Rashford and Roony Bardghji.
Valencia, in need of a winger after Fran Pérez's departure, has moved quickly. The deal is being considered as a loan with a purchase option, although Barça would include a buy-back clause to avoid losing control of one of its greatest gems. If completed, Dani Rodríguez would go from getting only a few minutes at Camp Nou to having a much more important role at Mestalla.
An important step up
Dani Rodríguez arrived at Barça from Real Sociedad and has climbed through the ranks until earning a place in the first team's dynamics. Last season, he played ten matches with the reserves, scoring three goals and providing three assists. His left foot, his ability to link up, and his vision make him a footballer with enormous potential who needs consistency to keep growing.
For Flick, a loan to a club like Valencia is the best way for the player to gain experience at the top level. At Mestalla, he would have the chance to compete in a demanding environment, with pressure, responsibility, and high-intensity matches. An ideal context to toughen up and return to Barça with more maturity, ready to fight for a spot in the future.