Xavi blocks the departure of 20-year-old “important” Barcelona midfielder

As reported by Javi Miguel of Diario AS, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has decided to block midfield prodigy Nico Gonzalez from leaving the club this summer.

The 20-year-old La Masia graduate broke into the Barça first-team setup this past season and went on to play 36 matches across all competitions. However, a large percentage of his appearances came from the bench.

With Franck Kessie also joining the midfield contingent at Camp Nou, Nico’s game-time could likely take a further hit in the upcoming season. As a result, the Spaniard was reportedly considering leaving Barcelona on loan for the 2022/23 season.

Nico was further encouraged by his agent, Jorge Mendes, to consider leaving Camp Nou in search of regular game-time.

However, as per the fresh report from Javi Miguel, Xavi has decided to block Nico from leaving Barcelona this summer.

It is claimed that the Blaugrana head coach sees the 20-year-old as an important part of the first-team setup, although he believes that the youngster still needs to work on and improve several aspects of his game.

But, the manager and coaching staff that Nico has a high ceiling and believe that he can develop under their tutelage and grow more accustomed to the club’s tactics and principles. Hence, Xavi has acted to ensure that the La Masia ace does not leave the club.

If he stays, Nico will have to compete for a starting berth with Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Gavi, Kessie and Frenkie de Jong, provided the latter does not leave for Manchester United.

The task will be anything but easy for the young midfielder, but the coaches have faith in him to come good.

Nico signed a new contract with Barcelona in May last year until 2024, with a €500 million release clause inserted. The report adds that the youngster may be handed a new deal before the end of the year that would prolong his stay at Camp Nou until 2028.