Promising Barcelona midfielder finally ‘opens the door’ to exit the club

It has been yet another difficult season for Riqui Puig, who has had to watch on from the sidelines as the likes of Pedri, Nico Gonzalez and Gavi take up more prominent roles in the Barcelona first-team setup.

Once regarded as one of the finest exponents of La Masia, the 22-year-old has failed to make a successful transition to the senior level and has made just 53 appearances for Barça since making his debut in 2018.

To put things into perspective, Pedri played just one game less (52) than Puig’s overall tally in his very first season at Barça in 2020/21. The 22-year-old has taken the pitch just 14 times this term, whereas the likes of Gavi and Nico have 33 appearances each.

Puig’s fortunes have failed to improve following the sacking of Ronald Koeman, with Xavi Hernandez also not affording regular game-time owing to the quality and competition in the club’s midfield department.

The La Masia graduate has been adamant over staying put and fighting for his place at Camp Nou in the past, turning down several opportunities to leave the club either on loan or on a permanent basis.

However, as per COPE’s Helena Condis, Puig has now left the door open for an exit in the summer transfer window. The midfielder has seemingly come to the realisation that he needs to be playing regularly to reignite his stagnating career.

And with game-time not coming at Barcelona, he will now consider leaving the club before next season, although it is not specified if he would consider a loan exit or a permanent departure.

Nevertheless, Puig will evaluate his situation over the next month and take a call on his future. There is no denying the youngster’s potential – the goal against Osasuna this past weekend provided evidence of his abilities. A loan move away could really benefit the Spaniard.