Barcelona and club outcast set for summer split as departure looks certain

Ansu Fati’s future at Barcelona appears increasingly uncertain, with reports from MARCA suggesting he is certain to be among the departures next summer. 

His struggles this season have only added to speculation about his potential exit, as he has failed to secure a significant role in Hansi Flick’s plans—just as he was overlooked by Xavi before him.

Once regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young talents, Ansu has endured a frustrating campaign, lacking both consistency and opportunities. 

This marks the second consecutive season where he has struggled to make an impact, a stark contrast to the early years of his career when he was considered a key player for Barcelona’s present and future.

No place in Barcelona

The 22-year-old academy graduate has featured for only 186 minutes across eight matches this season. 

His limited game time includes four La Liga appearances against Alaves, Sevilla, Espanyol, and Real Sociedad, three outings in the Champions League against Monaco, Young Boys, and Bayern Munich, and a single appearance in the Copa del Rey against Barbastro. 

Of these, he has only started one match, which was in the league. He has yet to contribute a goal or an assist this season.

Adding to his struggles, he has now completed an entire round of La Liga fixtures without stepping onto the pitch. His last league appearance came on 10 November against Real Sociedad, where he was brought on in the 69th minute to replace Fermin Lopez. 

Since then, he has either remained on the bench or been completely left out of the squad.

Flick prefers other options

Flick continues to prioritise other attacking options ahead of him, believing that his teammates are currently offering more to the team. 

The club had even opened the door for him to leave during the winter transfer window, but Ansu opted to stay despite knowing his opportunities would remain scarce. 

This follows his loan spell at Brighton in the 2023-24 season, where he also struggled to recapture his best form.

With his contract running until June 2027, Barcelona were hoping to see improvement in his performances, but the situation remains unchanged. Unless there is a drastic turnaround, all signs point towards him departing in the summer.