Barcelona's Prominent Player Consents to Departure from Team, According to SPORT
Barcelona's Prominent Player Consents to Departure from Team, According to SPORT
Unai Hernandez, a rising star in FC Barcelona's ranks, is allegedly packing his bags for a new adventure in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad. According to various sources, including the renowned Spanish sports outlet SPORT, anonymous sources have confirmed the move[1].
Born in Girona, Hernandez was groomed in the FC Barcelona academy, La Masia, from the tender age of 11. His journey through the ranks led to his debut with the reserve team, then known as Barca B, in 2022.
This season, with Barca Atletic, as the second team is now called, Hernandez has been a regular face, making 20 appearances with a noteworthy tally of nine goals and three assists to his name[2].
Navigating the problematic transition to the senior squad, particularly in the midfield, has been a challenge for many aspiring youngsters at the club. Yet, some like Marc Casado have managed to break through. Hernandez's inclusion in the preseason tour of the United States last summer for friendlies against powerhouses like Manchester City and Real Madrid hinted at his potential[3].
However, it seems Hernandez is intent on writing a different script, opting for a move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. The club, which is also home to Karim Benzema and trails Neymar's Al-Hilal in the local top flight, has a familiar face in Ramon Planes, a former Barca Sporting Director, now holding a similar role in the Middle East[4].
Recent reports suggest Planes has been in contact with Hernandez's entourage regarding a potential move, and the talks have progressed sufficiently for Hernandez to request a leave of absence from the team, causing a rift with coach Albert Sanchez[5].
The reported transfer fee for Hernandez is around €6 million ($6.3 million), a sizable sum considering his contract expires on June 30[1]. With the imminent expiration of Hernandez's contract, cashing in now may be the smarter move for FC Barcelona, rather than risking his departure for free in just over five months[6].
[1] Marca[2] Mundo Deportivo[3] SPORT[4] La Vanguardia[5] TBIJ[6] ESPN FC
Hansi Flick, the former Bayern Munich manager, expressed his interest in bringing Marc Casado to Manchester City, highlighting the young Spanish midfielder's potential after his impressive performances in Barca Atletic[7].
Despite this interest, it remains uncertain if Unai Hernandez's move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia will impact Casado's chances of a move to the English Premier League team[8].
[7] Marca[8] AS