Barcelona facing serious dilemma over future of 20-year-old La Masia gem | OneFootball

According to a recent report from SPORT, Barcelona youngster Dani Rodriguez could be heading towards the exit door due to the overcrowding in the first team.

The 20-year-old winger, who recently returned to training with Barça Atlètic, is still working his way back from a shoulder injury suffered while playing for the senior side last season.

Hansi Flick has shown faith in Rodriguez from the start, even telling the player that he would be part of Barcelona’s pre-season plans. Unfortunately, his injury halted those plans, leaving his immediate future uncertain.

What’s the problem?

The main issue now is competition for places in the first team. With Roony Bardghji seemingly ahead of him in the pecking order for the role that supports Lamine Yamal’s position, Rodriguez’s chances of regular first-team football look slim.

Barcelona would prefer to keep him in the reserve team and give him opportunities when possible.

Dani Rodriguez faces a crucial time. (Picture Courtesy: X- @FCBarcelona_es)

However, the player is reportedly reluctant to play in the Second RFEF, especially after turning 20 and receiving offers from Segunda A clubs and teams abroad.

Flick keeping tabs

Rodriguez’s agent, Pini Zahavi, maintains a strong relationship with the club, and discussions over his next step are expected to take place in the coming weeks.

While the player’s ambition is to play at a higher level, Barcelona’s management must decide whether to loan him out or risk losing him permanently.

Meanwhile, Barça Atlètic coach Juliano Belletti is eager to have Rodriguez back to full fitness for the new campaign as the side pushes for a return to a higher division following relegation to the RFEF Segunda.

At the same time, Flick continues to monitor the winger’s progress closely and intends to keep him connected to the first-team environment once he is fully fit.