Xavi ‘counts on’ exit-linked veteran Barcelona star, wants player to stay

Over the past couple of days, there have been a lot of speculations mounting over the future of Barcelona midfielder Miralem Pjanic.

The 32-year-old had been linked with an exit very early in the summer, but managed to earn the faith of the coaching staff during pre-season.

However, with him not playing even a single minute of football this term, it has given way to rumours that the club might look to get rid of him if a suitable offer comes along. There has been interest from clubs in Qatar and Saudi Arabia of late.

But, as per a fresh report from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez still counts on Pjanic and wants the veteran midfielder to continue at Spotify Camp Nou.

The Barça head coach was won over by the 32-year-old Bosnian’s performances during the pre-season. Having been convinced by the seasoned campaigner, Xavi decided to stick with him as the backup option for Sergio Busquets in the holding midfield role.

It even led to the Catalan giants sanctioning a loan exit for Nico Gonzalez, who has since joined Valencia in search of regular game-time.

Despite being seen as a backup for Busquets, Pjanic did not play against Real Sociedad when the Barcelona captain was out suspended. However, the report states that the ex-Juventus man was not used on the day due to the change in formation and no other reason.

It is claimed that the coaching staff continue to see Pjanic as a vital member of the team who can play an important role over the course of the season which will be long and arduous. They will speak to him today to clarify that he will receive minutes going forward in the campaign.

So, despite the rumours, Xavi wants Pjanic to remain at Spotify Camp Nou.