Changes for Barca: Alemany to stay, "extraordinary" Zubimendi

Alemany seemed to have one foot out the door, with a deal with Aston Villa as good as signed. However a few days ago there were reports that he had asked Joan Laporta to stay at Barcelona. 

That change of heart now seems official, as in a press conference on Friday, Xavi Hernandez stated,  “He has been very clear — he has told us that he wants to be here, that Barca is great and that he wanted to come back”.  

The coach was in fact full of praise for Alemany: “He is a sensational worker, he has put a lot of order in the club”.

Before his u-turn, Alemany didn't look like the only one leaving the offices of the Camp Nou. Jordi Cruyff also announced his departure from the club a few days ago. 

This decision will probably stick as Hernandez stated, "Jordi Cruyff is leaving, he wanted new challenges and we will miss him".

The coach acknowledged the changes that will be coming behind the scenes and in terms of the players themselves as well. His "priority signing" is a "defensive pivot. The replacement for (Sergio) Busquets", he said.

It's likely he referred here to the possible signing of Martin Zubimendi, a defensive midfielder at Real Sociedad, that Barcelona are in negotiations over.

"Zubimendi is an extraordinary pivot, he understands the game very well, he wins duels", commented the coach.

Barcelona will play Real Sociedad on Sunday in a dead rubber match, as Barcelona have already mathematically won La Liga. They will be presented with the trophy after the game.

 

May 19, 2023