Barcelona have no intention of renewing La Masia defender, will leave as a free agent

Barcelona’s rebuild has been an ongoing project for a few years now. However, it is only this season under Xavi Hernandez that the team is undergoing a real change in guard.

Perhaps the most important step towards the same comes in the form of replacing the captains, for the veterans no longer offer as much quality nor command a starting spot. Gerard Pique’s retirement was the first step, and it seems like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba are set to see the same fate soon.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s fourth captain does not have much light at the end of the tunnel either, despite being far younger than his compatriots.

The Catalans do not intend to renew Sergi Roberto’s contract as of right now, and the defender could leave the club at the end of his current deal.

Despite being on the bench for a major part of the second half of last season, the Blaugranas extended the right-back’s expiring contract in the summer. The extension was only for one season, meaning Roberto will be out of contract in June 2023.

The 30-year-old has played nine La Liga games for Barcelona this season, starting just three. In that period, he has scored two goals and is yet to provide an assist. His defensive contribution has been poor, however, as he averages just above three defensive actions per game.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if Xavi looks to sell the player in January or allow his contract to run out in June. His departure would open the gate to the signing of a quality name for the right-back position.