Barcelona sporting director Robert Fernández has revealed that the 33-year old full-back Dani Alves has decided to leave Camp Nou this summer and according to recent rumours the Brazilian star is on the verge of making a summer switch to Serie A Champions Juventus on a 2 year contract.
Dani Alves had renewed his contract his contract last summer which would keep him at Brcelona until 2017, but the ace defender who have had played an instrumental role in FC Barcelona’s success has decided to walk away in search of a new chapter in his career.
“Dani has decided to leave. It’s a personal decision which we respect. There’s no more to say. He’s already told us of his intention,” said Fernández.
“He’s been an extraordinary player. The issue of his renewal (last year) must be analysed by how calmly it was done. We were in a FIFA sanction and couldn’t sign players.
? Robert Fernández: “Dani Alves has decided to leave. It’s a personal decision that we respect” #FCBlive
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 2, 2016
Dani Alves arrived at Camp Nou in 2008 from Sevilla and has a massive contribution in Barcelona’s 6 La Liga titles in the last eight years. The other worth mentioning feathers in his hat are four Copa del Reys, three Champions Leagues and three FIFA Club World Cups.
“We signed Aleix Vidal and Arda Turan, but they couldn’t play until January. At the time Dani’s renewal was logical and normal, because he was a player who had a very good season and every season he’s been exquisite, fantastic behaviour,’’ said the sporting director Fernández.
“Dani’s contract ended last season. The club was in a difficult situation. Dani was very important to the club and we decided to offer a renewal,’’ said Fernández.
“Renewals aren’t only decided by the club but the player and his representative, seeking favourable situations, and in that negotiation Alves wanted a year and then to go free. The club doesn’t always win in negotiations,” he added.
Dani Alves to leave FC Barcelona this summer https://t.co/8te6ZDDnGm pic.twitter.com/2gxI9VWksS
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 2, 2016
According to recent media rumours it is expected that Arsenal’s right-back Hector Bellerin will be the replacement for Dani Alves. La Masia prodigy impressed his former club when he featured for Arsenal against Barcelona in the recently concluded Champions League. Hector Bellerin has also secured a spot in Spain’s 23-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2016 campaign in France this summer.
Fernandez however hinted that the club will rely on the two options available – Sergi Roberto and Aleix Vidal, to take charge of the right-back position.
“On the right side we have Aleix Vidal, who was signed for this situation. We also have Sergi Roberto,” he was keen to point out,’’ said Fernández.
? Robert Fernández: “I don’t have the slightest doubt that Mascherano will stay here. He is a vital player” #FCBlive
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 2, 2016
Commenting about Mascherano’s rumoured move to Juventus this summer, Fernández said, ‘’ “I don’t have the slightest doubt that Mascherano will stay here – he is a vital player”.
? Robert Fernández: “Neymar will continue. He will be here for many years to come” #FCBlive pic.twitter.com/Df2liXO5Xv
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 2, 2016
When asked about Neymar, he confidently said, “He will stay and be here for many years”.