Ansu Fati is edging closer to the Barcelona exit door after becoming increasingly disillusioned with his situation under new manager Hansi Flick.
Once hailed as the future of the Catalan giants, the 22-year-old forward now finds himself on the fringes, with little indication that things will improve ahead of the 2025 summer window.
Despite returning to the club with hopes of reviving his career, Fati’s minutes have dried up, and his frustration is mounting.
In Barcelona’s recent match against Real Betis, the Spain and Guinea-Bissau dual national warmed up on the sidelines, prepared to enter the fray—but never got the call.
It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated his season: readiness met with rejection. Since his 28-minute appearance in the Copa del Rey against Barbastro, the young attacker has not played a single minute in competitive action.
Although his contract runs until 2027, Fati is seriously contemplating a move away from Camp Nou this summer. In January, several European clubs showed strong interest in securing his services.
Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, Porto, and Turkish side Besiktas—reportedly urged on by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer—were among the clubs exploring a loan or permanent deal. A potential transfer to Porto was abandoned following a managerial change.
Despite the interest, Fati opted to stay in Barcelona after receiving personal assurances from Flick. The German coach reportedly told the forward he would be given opportunities.
Fati, aware of his patchy form and the difficulties of adjusting mid-season, accepted the challenge and chose continuity over upheaval.
But promises have not translated into playing time. More concerning for Fati is the subtle yet telling signals from within the club.
Despite standing out in training sessions, particularly in shooting drills, his efforts rarely make it to the club’s social media platforms. Meanwhile, other squad players with less impact regularly receive attention online.
According to Mundo Deportivo, these seemingly minor details have contributed to a growing sense of isolation.
Fati, once at the centre of the club’s marketing and sporting vision, now feels sidelined and forgotten.
His confidence has taken a hit, and his entourage has acknowledged that the priority has shifted: it’s no longer about staying at Barcelona at all costs, but rather finding an environment where he can flourish, play regularly, and feel trusted.
As the summer window draws near, suitors across Europe are once again circling. Clubs in England, Germany, and Portugal are closely monitoring Fati’s status.
Though his recent seasons have been riddled with injuries and inconsistency, few doubt his talent.
What’s clear is that he needs a fresh start, a new setting where his development can be reignited.
For Barcelona, a decision looms. Either they rekindle their belief in a player once touted as Lionel Messi’s heir, or they prepare to watch him revive his career elsewhere. One of La Masia’s brightest stars may now be facing a bittersweet farewell.
🚨 Ansu Fati est mentalement brisé et prêt à partir cet été – « Je veux une équipe qui croit en moi »
(@mundodeportivo) pic.twitter.com/d9EAZD2OaP
— Barça News (@BarcaNewsFRA) April 6, 2025
