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January 15, 2025 at 11:17 PM

Ansu Fati Excluded from Barcelona Squad Amid Speculation

Barcelona omits Ansu Fati from their Copa del Rey squad, fueling rumors about the forward's potential departure as his future at the club remains uncertain.

Ansu Fati Excluded from Barcelona Squad Amid Speculation

Ansu Fati, once heralded as Barcelona’s next big star, finds himself at the center of intense speculation after being excluded from the squad for the Copa del Rey clash against Real Betis. This marks the third consecutive game in which head coach Hansi Flick has opted to leave the young forward out of his plans, raising questions about Fati’s future at the club.

In a recent press conference, Flick addressed his decision, stating, "Ansu needs to reflect on what is best for his career moving forward. His performances this season have not met the expectations we had for him, and this is a moment for him to reevaluate." While Flick refrained from giving specifics, his comments underscored the dwindling faith in Fati’s ability to secure a key role in the team.

Fati’s season has been plagued by setbacks, including injuries that kept him sidelined for nearly three months. Despite recovering and returning to full fitness, the forward has struggled to regain the explosive form that once earned him comparisons to Barcelona legends. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Toni Fernández have taken the spotlight, further complicating Fati’s quest for playing time.

As the January transfer window approaches its deadline, speculation about Fati’s future has reached a fever pitch. Clubs such as Real Betis and Valencia are rumored to be monitoring his situation closely, with the possibility of securing his services before the window closes. Initially resistant to a mid-season exit, Fati may now be forced to reconsider his stance given the current circumstances.

The squad list for the Betis match includes 22 players, with Flick opting not to fill the 23rd spot, a move seen by many as a deliberate statement on Fati’s standing within the team. This exclusion has added fuel to the narrative that the young forward’s time at Barcelona may be coming to an end.

As Barcelona continues to evolve under Flick’s leadership, the fate of Ansu Fati remains one of the most pressing storylines. Will he choose to seek opportunities elsewhere, or can he stage a remarkable comeback to reclaim his place in the team? The next few weeks could prove decisive for the 20-year-old’s career.