Xavi wants Ez Abde at Barca for pre-season

Ez Abde's future is at Barcelona, at least in the immediate future. Xavi Hernandez's intention is to have him back in the squad when the pre-season starts on July 10.

Xavi Hernandez has spent days outlining the squad for the 2023-24 season together with the club's directors. Transfers, departures, transfers... In the case of Abde, he ended his loan spell at Osasuna after a magnificent season (34 games, 6 goals and 2 assists) and the desire of the Blaugrana coach is that the Spanish-Moroccan winger starts the campaign under his orders and so he can test again how he fits in the squad as he considers that he can contribute, offering different characteristics. 

Abde's footballing growth has been evident during his loan spell at the Pamplona outfit. Under the guidance of Jagoba Arrasate, he has been able to exploit his virtues as a winger, especially on the left wing, his preferred position. He has also played on the right flank or in midfield when necessary. And he has always brought his speed, daring and ability to try and beat oppos one on one.

These virtues have attracted the attention of other clubs, such as Real Betis, as well as several teams in the Premier League. Abde's initial desire was to clear up his future definitively and try his luck at one of these teams and continue to grow as a footballer.

The striker is aware of the difficulties involved in playing for Barça with competition that includes Ousmane Dembélé and Raphinha, as well as Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres, although in the latter two cases the club is open to their departure. Robert Lewandowski is a separate case, as he is not only unquestionably a starter but also plays in a completely different position.

A part of the sporting management is also in favour of Abde's departure, either on a transfer or on loan. However, they have decided to heed Xavi's wishes and, for the time being, opt to keep Abde. However, it is clear that there is still the whole summer ahead and in the next few weeks of the transfer market new options could appear for Abde to end up playing for another club. In any case, Abde will be wearing the Blaugrana again on July 10 and, if nothing changes, he will take part in Barça's American tour.