Barcelona president Joan Laporta said on Wednesday it would be up to coach Xavi Hernandez whether Usman Dembele plays in the second half of the season after the Frenchman refused to sign a new contract.
But Laporta also said Dembele’s departure would likely make it “more difficult for him to play” when his contract expires in the summer.
Barca told Dembele he would have to renew his deal or leave in the January transfer window, but he did not, and insisted he would not succumb to “blackmail” by the club.
After Laporta claimed Dembele turned down a move to an English team on Monday, Barca believe the winger has already agreed to join another club over the summer.
Despite the controversy, it would be tempting for Xavi to tap into the talented 24-year-old, especially as Barcelona face a battle for a place in La Liga’s top four this season.
Asked whether Dembele would continue to play for the team, Laporta said: “That will be decided by the coach.”
“What I think is that the coach is working for this season and also for the next one, so a player who hasn’t decided to renew – which means we probably won’t have him next season because another club There has to be a deal with him – it’s more difficult for him to play,” Laporta said.
The Barcelona president was speaking at a presentation by Adama Traore, who has joined on loan from Wolves.
Barca’s technical director Jordi Cruyff suggested Traore’s arrival also reduces the need for Dembele to be picked.
“The club has brought in players who are straight and can score goals. Compared to December, Xavi has a wider range of options in that area,” Cruyff said.
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