FC Barcelona manager admits he won’t prevent a £35 million player from leaving this summer if they choose to go, following their win against Real Madrid yesterday

A soon-to-be former member of the midfield ranks at La Liga giants Barcelona had been scheduled to play a crucial role in this weekend’s highly anticipated match against Real Madrid. According to Mundo Deportivo, Oriol Romeu was the player slated for this significant role.

The name of Spaniard Oriol Romeu has prominently featured in the headlines in Catalunya over the last 24 hours. This sudden attention comes after unexpected news that the former Southampton midfielder was set to leave Barcelona’s training camp in the USA.

The reason behind this sudden departure? Romeu is flying back to Spain to finalize a deal with his former club Girona. He is set to join Barcelona’s Catalan rivals on loan for the entirety of the 2024/25 campaign.

However, if this unexpected development had not occurred, the 32-year-old midfielder was actually poised for a key role in what would have been the most significant match to date under new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick.

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Flick had indicated that he was counting on Romeu and wanted to see him in action during the games in America. Romeu had already made a substitute appearance against Manchester City and was reserved for a leading role in the fixture against Real Madrid, the second game of Barcelona’s tour.

This context highlights the unexpected nature of Romeu’s departure. The midfielder, who had been informed by Flick of his significant role in the upcoming games, decided this week to inform the Barcelona management of his desire to leave.

His decision was influenced by the understanding that once Barcelona’s array of midfield stars returned to full fitness, his role within the team would be significantly diminished.

Romeu’s move to Girona is notable not only for its timing but also for what it signifies in terms of his career trajectory. Despite being earmarked for a prominent position in a crucial match, Romeu chose to prioritize a return to Girona, a club where he feels he can play a more integral role throughout the season.

This decision underscores the competitive nature of the squad at Barcelona and the challenges faced by players in securing regular playing time.

Romeu’s departure also speaks to the broader dynamics within the Barcelona squad under Hansi Flick’s management. Flick, known for his strategic and often transformative approaches, appeared to have a clear vision for Romeu’s involvement in the team’s immediate plans. However, the midfielder’s personal assessment of his long-term prospects led him to seek opportunities elsewhere.