FC Barcelona’s manager has acknowledged that he won’t stop a £35 million player from leaving the club this summer if they choose to do so.
Oriol Romeu, who was expected to play a crucial role in Barcelona’s highly anticipated match against Real Madrid this weekend, has recently been making headlines in Catalunya. According to Mundo Deportivo, the former Southampton midfielder was set to leave Barcelona’s training camp in the USA unexpectedly.
Romeu is returning to Spain to finalize a loan deal with his former club Girona for the entire 2024/25 season. This sudden development is surprising, as the 32-year-old midfielder was expected to play a key role in what would have been a significant match under new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick.
Mundo Deportivo reports that Flick had planned to use Romeu during the American tour games, including a leading role in the match against Real Madrid, which was the second game of the tour. Romeu had already made a substitute appearance against Manchester City and was slated for a major role. This makes his sudden departure all the more surprising, given his anticipated importance in upcoming fixtures.
Romeu’s decision was influenced by the understanding that, once Barcelona’s midfield stars returned to full fitness, his role in the team would be significantly reduced.
His move to Girona is notable for both its timing and its impact on his career trajectory. Although Romeu was set for a prominent role in a crucial match, he chose to return to Girona, where he believes he will have a more central role throughout the season.
This decision highlights the intense competition within Barcelona’s squad and the difficulties players face in securing regular playing time.
Romeu’s departure also reflects the broader dynamics within the Barcelona squad under Hansi Flick’s management. Flick, known for his strategic and transformative methods, seemed to have a specific role planned for Romeu. However, Romeu’s own assessment of his long-term prospects led him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
