FC Barcelona Considers Possible Departure of Ansu Fati

Sébastien Pocognoli has significant challenges ahead. Recently appointed as the head coach of AS Monaco to replace Adi Hütter, the Belgian manager must address the complex situation regarding Paul Pogba. Despite ongoing suggestions that the French player is nearing a return, he has yet to play a minute for Monaco. On Monday, Pocognoli expressed caution about Pogba’s situation, indicating that reintegrating him is one of his major tasks. Additionally, Pocognoli also needs to help Ansu Fati regain his best form. After a difficult year at FC Barcelona, where he spent more time injured than on the pitch (11 matches, 298 minutes played), Fati sought a fresh start. He was attracted to the project Monaco offered, leading to his arrival at the club on July 1.

“AS Monaco is pleased to announce the arrival of Ansu Fati. The 22-year-old international forward is on loan from FC Barcelona for the 2025-2026 season, with an option to buy,” read the club’s statement. Prior to this, he extended his contract with Barcelona until June 2028. However, the club’s primary goal was to secure a permanent transfer. As reported, the deal includes an option to buy for €11 million, alongside a significant resale clause, which all parties found agreeable. After weeks of preparation, Fati made his debut for Monaco on September 18 in a UEFA Champions League match against Club Bruges. He played for 27 minutes and managed to score, despite the team losing 4-1.

The Barça Concern Over Fati’s Management

Fati’s initial performances were promising, as he followed up his debut with a 45-minute appearance against Metz in Ligue 1, where he scored twice. He netted another goal against Lorient but was silent during a match against Manchester City in the Champions League. He found the net again with a double against Nice in Ligue 1, totaling 6 goals in his first 5 appearances, which pleased Monaco. However, he then faced a dip in form, going seven matches without scoring, whether as a starter or coming off the bench. After falling ill, he was absent from the squad against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League on November 4. His reduced playing time has raised questions about his status. In Spain, his situation is garnering attention, especially as there were hopes for his resurgence. According to Marca, the coaching change and Pocognoli’s arrival have hindered Fati’s progress (6 goals in 11 matches).

The Spanish daily notes that Fati has played just 55 minutes across his last three appearances for Monaco (against Nantes, Paris FC, and Lens). This situation is not favorable for FC Barcelona, who are genuinely concerned for their player. With some financial troubles facing the Camp Nou club, they were initially optimistic about recouping the €11 million from his loan but the outlook is changing. Barcelona is closely monitoring the situation, eager to see if Fati regains his playing time. If not, as Marca reports, a departure could be in the cards come January, as clubs may express interest in Fati. The club wants to ensure he is given enough game time to impress and potentially secure a transfer, whether to Monaco or elsewhere. A meeting is anticipated soon between Fati and Barcelona to discuss the way forward, with a decision expected in January.