Note on FC Barcelona's Midfielders

Since the start of the season, media outlets that follow the news of FC Barcelona have speculated about the possible departure of three players who are fighting for a spot in the crowded midfield of the team: Croatian Ivan Rakitic, Chilean Arturo Vidal, and Catalan Carles Aleñá. In all cases, the rumors have revolved around the feeling that they were playing much fewer minutes than expected.

Aleñá Will Be the Only One Leaving

Today, just 8 days before the winter transfer market opens, the newspaper As claims that out of the three players, only one will leave, and that is the academy player Aleñá. The club believes that the young player needs to accumulate more playing time and, therefore, it is most suitable for his professional development to facilitate his loan to a team that can guarantee him minutes. In this sense, Real Betis is the top favorite to obtain his loan.

Vidal's Exit Is Out of the Question

In Vidal's case, his departure has been ruled out due to the fact that he possesses qualities that are scarce in the squad (character, determination, and competitiveness) and that the team's coach, Ernesto Valverde, appreciates considerably. Therefore, even though the player is not completely satisfied with his role and despite clubs like Inter Milan persistently pursuing him (there is talk in Italy today of an offer of €12 million), the club will not allow his departure.

Rakitic Will Stay

Likewise, the Barcelona executives have put aside the idea of transferring Rakitic after realizing that the Croatian has become an essential piece for Valverde. At the beginning of the season, the midfielder was relegated to a secondary role, but in recent weeks his contribution has once again become crucial.