Rising through the ranks of the infamous La Masia Academy came a youngster that no one knew would leave with the status of a club legend. A versatile player by trait, Sergi Roberto possessed unique capabilities to feature in the central midfield, full-back, or winger positions. Having spent around 18 years at the Catalan club, Sergi Roberto has sacrificed enough to be called a Barcelona legend.
Sergi Roberto: The Barcelona legend
Though he was more versed in the central midfielder role, Roberto was included in the Barcelona lineup for the full-back role due to his versatility to switch between the two positions. Initially serving as the backup for club hero Dani Alves, Sergi Roberto became the first choice right back for FC Barcelona in 2016.
Famous for his remontada goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the 2nd leg of the 2016/17 UCL Round of 16, Roberto's stoppage-time late winner remains his best gift for every Barcelona fan. Though the goal came in the Round of 16, through it, Barca pulled off the greatest comeback ever produced in football history.
Since the departure of stars like Leo Messi, Luis Suarez, and Gerard Pique, he has remained the sole warrior from that iconic Barcelona lineup. Roberto, backed by Xavi, led the Catalan club in their last campaign. However, Xavi's departure from the managerial position played a huge role in Roberto's Barca future. The new in, Hansi Flick, doesn't bet on the Spaniard like his former manager Xavi used to, which had made it clear that Barca might look to move on from Sergi Roberto.
Sergi Roberto says Goodbye to Barca
According to recent reports from Mundo Deportivo, former Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto has said goodbye to the club. He has decided to no longer wait for the club to register him and is now considering joining the Premier League. Though he has expressed it now, it was clear to Roberto that he wouldn't be in the club's plans for the next season.
Even though he didn't end his footballing career at his boyhood club, FC Barcelona, Sergi Roberto will always remain an integral part of the Catalan club's history for whatever he has done for the club.