A soon-to-be former Barcelona midfielder was set to play a key role in this weekend’s anticipated match against Real Madrid. According to Mundo Deportivo, Oriol Romeu was the player designated for this important position.
Oriol Romeu has been prominently featured in the headlines in Catalunya over the past 24 hours following news that the former Southampton midfielder is leaving Barcelona’s training camp in the USA. Romeu is returning to Spain to finalize a loan move to his former club Girona for the entire 2024/25 season.
Had this move not come up, the 32-year-old midfielder was expected to play a crucial role in what would have been a significant match under new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick. According to Mundo Deportivo, Flick had planned to use Romeu in the games in America, and he was particularly earmarked for a key role in the fixture against Real Madrid, the second game of Barcelona’s tour.
Romeu’s sudden departure underscores the unexpected nature of his move. Despite being informed by Hansi Flick of his important role in upcoming games, Romeu chose this week to express his desire to leave Barcelona. His decision was influenced by the expectation that his role would be reduced once Barcelona’s key midfielders returned to full fitness.
Romeu’s transfer to Girona is significant not just for its timing, but also for its impact on his career path. Although he was set for a key role in an important match, Romeu prioritized a return to Girona, where he anticipates a more central role throughout the season. This move highlights the intense competition at Barcelona and the challenges players face in securing regular playing time.