Ansu Fati Determined to Secure Barcelona Future Amid Uncertain Role Under Hansi Flick

Ansu Fati remains committed to fighting for his place in Barcelona’s first team as the 2024/25 season enters its final months. Despite regaining fitness towards the end of 2024, he has struggled to find favor in Hansi Flick’s plans for the year ahead.

While Flick had previously stated that he would keep Fati in the squad if an exit deal could not be finalized, the club’s preference was to facilitate his departure.

However, no viable transfer materialized before the winter transfer window closed, providing Fati with a final opportunity to prove his worth at the club.

Failed Transfer Attempts and Deadline Day Drama

Initially, Fati was linked with a loan move, with interest from La Liga, the Premier League, and even Cesc Fabregas’ Como. However, no official offers emerged, leaving Barcelona to make a last-minute decision on his future.

With the club facing financial pressures and attempting to reduce a bloated wage bill, the situation remained uncertain until the final hours of the transfer window.

According to Diario Sport, a last-minute offer arrived from Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab, who proposed a €10 million transfer fee with €5 million in add-ons.

While Barcelona was open to the deal, Fati rejected the move, opting instead to stay and fight for his position at Camp Nou.

Uncertain Future Beyond This Season

Unless an unexpected turnaround occurs in the coming months, Fati is expected to be on the transfer list in the summer, with fresh interest likely to arise.

The young forward has struggled for form, failing to score a goal in any competition this season. His previous campaign at Brighton & Hove Albion yielded only four goals, while his last goal for Barcelona dates back to June 2023, before his injury struggles intensified.

Barcelona’s Transfer Window Struggles

The winter transfer window proved challenging for Barcelona, as they failed to secure their desired reinforcements while also struggling to offload unwanted players—including Fati. Despite several players departing, the club was unable to finalize Fati’s exit.

With Flick working to balance the squad amid financial constraints, Barcelona hoped for a transfer rather than a loan deal to provide immediate financial relief. However, Fati’s desire to remain put an end to any potential negotiations.

Hansi Flick’s Stance on Fati

Despite his commitment to stay, Fati does not appear to be in Hansi Flick’s long-term plans. The coach had previously indicated that while he would not reduce the squad size unnecessarily, Fati was not expected to have a significant role in the team.

Now that the transfer window has shut, the focus will be on whether Fati can take advantage of the limited opportunities he may receive.

Flick has made it clear that he has been transparent with Fati about his situation, reinforcing that the decision to stay was ultimately up to the player.

Fati’s Performance and Struggles

The 22-year-old has played just eight times this season, with only one start. His lack of match time makes it difficult to foresee a change in his situation anytime soon. Given Flick’s clear stance, Fati’s chances of breaking into the starting eleven appear slim.

Speaking about the situation, Flick stated: “I’ve spoken to him and he wants to stay. Everyone wants to play, he’s performing well in training so we’ll see if he can participate.”

Fati’s struggles extend beyond just this season. Since making his Barcelona debut in 2019, he has accumulated 29 goals and nine assists but has faced consistent injury setbacks.

His absence from consistent playing time has stunted his development, raising concerns about his long-term role in the squad.

What’s Next for Fati?

As speculation continues over Fati’s future, the summer transfer window is expected to be pivotal. Barcelona will likely attempt to facilitate a permanent transfer, given the need to streamline their squad financially and competitively.

While Flick has maintained that performances will dictate selection, it remains to be seen whether Fati can make a lasting impact in the months ahead. Unless he delivers standout performances, a summer departure appears inevitable.