Ansu Fati, a name that has garnered headlines with Barcelona over the last few years, as he is portrayed as one of the brightest wonder-kids in world football. However, there have been some serious concerns over Fati’s health, as he was sidelined for much of last season due to injury. However good news has sparked the club, as according to Marca, Fati should be set for preseason activities with the club. This implies that Fati will be healthy to start the new campaign for Barca, however questions about his role on the club will likely arise for two primary reasons:
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Firstly, the new additions to the club may put into question his direct role in the field. Sergio Aguero’s addition will do little to impact Fati’s playtime because Aguero primarily takes up the striker position while Fati patrols the midfield and wing positions. The addition of Memphis Depay however may change things up, as Depay can take up a wing position if needed, which can directly impact Fati’s playtime on the wings. Ronald Koeman will have an important decision to make in balancing a midfield with the talents of Frenkie de Jong, Leo Messi, Pedri, Sergio Busquets and the new additions at his disposal in the midfield.
Ansu Fati will have to adjust to a new midfield in his Barcelona return from injury
Secondly, the current instability regarding contracts and outgoing for the club will also question Fati’s playtime and role in the club. The club is currently in the middle of transfer negotiations with Antoine Griezmann, and contract negotiations with Ousmane Dembele (a player who dominates Barca’s wing positions). Fati, who is 18 years old, maybe distracted by the commotion of movement within the club. More importantly, if Dembele finds his way out of the club or loses playing time, Fati may have to be his direct replacement and be an active contributor in offense creation.
In a season that promises intrigue and continuous storylines, perhaps the greatest question is how Fati will regain his form and adjust to a Barca team that has changed significantly since he last laced up his boots for the club.