The curious case of Ilias Akhomach after Leeds deal fell through

Ilias Akhomach has been on a constant merry-go-round this season. His contractual situation has conditioned his campaign with his current deal expiring on June 30 and the discrepancies over his renewal seem difficult to solve. Despite the fact that he is far from continuing, Óscar López has called on him to play the first leg of the Champions Cup quarter-final against Athletic at Lezama (Wednesday, 18.00 h.).

Ilias had reached an agreement with Leeds United to play for the English side from next season. However, the deal broke down following the sacking of sporting director Victor Orta and coach Javi Gracia, who were counting on him for the future. Veteran manager Sam Allardyce's has been appointed on a short-term deal.

The 19-year-old winger has been approached by Arsenal, Milan and Sevilla. Now, however, he is in a period of impasse. His renewal remains very difficult, but Barça have not taken drastic measures with him.

Not punished

Víctor Barberá, for example, could also be called up by the youth team, but he has not been called up for six games with Barça Atlètic since his agreement with Club Brugge was revealed. Barberá has played this season in the UEFA Youth League with Barça.

For his part, Ilias has played 23 games for Barça Atlètic in the Spanish third division, scoring one goal, although his prominence has declined a lot. Rafa Márquez will hardly count on him anymore and the club prefers him to reinforce the Juvenil A team.

The winger made his debut last season with the Barça first team under Xavi, playing three official matches, and this season he was also called up for the Champions League match against Viktoria Plzen, although he watched the game from the bench.

His talent is beyond doubt and his ultimate service to the club that trained him could be to retain the Champions Cup trophy he won last season.