Barcelona captain annoyed by recent criticism, plans to leave at the end of the season

In light of Barcelona’s recent results against Inter Milan and Real Madrid, one player that has come under the scanner is captain Sergio Busquets.

The 34-year-old veteran was at fault for one of the goals that Inter scored in the 3-3 draw against Barça at Spotify Camp Nou last week. He was also culpable for Real Madrid’s opener as they ran out 3-1 winners in the first El Clasico of the season this past Sunday.

Apart from the mistakes leading to goals, Busquets was generally sub-par, especially in the Clasico, as he found it difficult to go toe-to-toe with Real Madrid veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.

The Spanish international has, thus, drawn a lot of criticism from fans, pundits and the media alike for his recent performances.

And, according to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Busquets is annoyed by the recent criticism directed towards him as he feels there is a lack of respect towards him.

A level-headed customer, Busquets has shown throughout his career that he does not get affected by pressure on the pitch or off it. But the criticism he has faced over the past week or so has left him upset and annoyed.

In spite of that, the 34-year-old still plans to see out the season at Barcelona before moving on to the next chapter in his career.

Busquets’ current contract with the Catalans expires at the end of the season. And, as things stand, the captain will leave the club when that happens, with the MLS appearing to be his next destination.

For now, the La Masia graduate will focus on ending the season strongly with Barça amidst the barrage of criticism and complaints.

Barcelona had made a contract extension offer for Busquets this past summer, although the main motive behind that was to help them achieve Fair Play. But the midfielder had not signed the deal and does not plan to renew as things stand.

The Blaugrana, for their part, are already looking at possible replacements for Busquets, with the club even planning to sign a new midfielder as early as January.