Paulinho exit an opportunity for Barça

Paulinho’s more than likely departure changes Barcelona’s plans. They expected various midfield exits, such as Andres Iniesta and Andre Gomes, maybe even Denis Suarez, but not the Brazilian. They had three players around 30 (Paulinho, Busquets and Rakitic) and the obligation to sign fresh blood. That’s where the signing of Arthur and the promotion Aleña comes into things, but now they will have to change their priorities with €50m in the bank. 

Paulihno’s exit will be good news in terms of reducing the wage bill and because it would be the third most expensive sale in the club’s history, after Neymar and Zlatan. Barça had singled midfield out as an area to improve even though other their first targets were a defender (Lenglet) and a forward (Griezmann). Paulinho’s departure is an opportunity; the club can think about rejuvenating in the middle of the pitch. 

Barça need players hungry for titles. There are some players, like Pique, whose recent months, both with Barça and Spain, have been really poor. A shadow of what he was, a sign of not taking his profession as the most important thing. He has other preferences to the game. Everyone is free to do what they want but Messi, after his World Cup KO, has not been seen. It didn’t take Pique long to pop up at Wimbledon as he focuses on his other businesses. 

The club need hungry players to keep up with Messi’s level. Therefore, drastic measures, as taken by Florentino Perez in the past, shouldn’t be overlooked. The exit of Paulinho could be seen as an opportunity. And if PSG call to ask about Suarez, they should open the door and, at least, listen. Madrid sold Di Maria after he was MVP in the Champions League final. And now Cristiano Ronaldo. At a club like Madrid, there are no untouchables. At Barça, only Messi is in that category. No one can rest on their laurels because no player should be safe. Playing strong and making brave decisions should never be a problem.