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January 14, 2025 at 2:26 AM

Hansi Flick Loses Confidence in Ansu Fati at Barcelona

Ansu Fati faces challenges at Barcelona as Hansi Flick excludes him from key matches, raising questions about his future at the club.

Hansi Flick Loses Confidence in Ansu Fati at Barcelona

Ansu Fati, once considered one of the brightest prospects in football, is now grappling with significant setbacks at Barcelona. Under the management of Hansi Flick, Fati has been notably absent from critical matches, including the recent Supercopa, signaling a potential loss of trust from the coach.

The young forward's exclusion from the semifinal against Athletic Bilbao was particularly striking, as 16-year-old Toni Fernández was preferred over him. This decision followed his limited involvement in the Copa del Rey clash against Barbastro, where Fati only appeared in the second half. These developments underscore his relegation to a secondary role within the team.

Injuries have also played a role in Fati's struggles this season. A preseason bout with plantar fasciitis ruled him out of Barcelona's U.S. tour, despite Flick’s high expectations for him at the time. Subsequent muscular injuries further hindered his progress, leaving him out of contention for extended periods. Flick had initially urged patience, stating, "Fati has the talent and professionalism to return to his best. We must give him time."

Ansu Fati, Barcelona, Hansi Flick, Toni Fernández, Dani Olmo, Pau Víctor, Real Betis, Sevilla, Valencia, Girona - SUP Football

Despite regaining fitness, Fati has been unable to secure consistent playing time. The return of key players like Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor has intensified competition for attacking positions, making it increasingly challenging for Fati to find a place in the lineup. Flick’s decisions suggest a declining faith in Fati's ability to impact matches at the required level.

As the January transfer window approaches, speculation about Fati's future is mounting. Barcelona is reportedly open to a loan move, with clubs like Real Betis, Sevilla, Valencia, and Girona expressing interest. However, Fati remains cautious, given his mixed experience at Brighton last season. Financial constraints may also require Barcelona to subsidize a significant portion of his salary to facilitate any potential move.

The current situation presents a pivotal moment in Fati’s career. Whether he stays to fight for his place at Barcelona or seeks a fresh start elsewhere, his journey serves as a reminder of the challenges young players face in maintaining their trajectory at the highest level of football.