By Ramiro Diaz
Ansu Fati's journey at FC Barcelona has been a dramatic shift from soaring heights to challenging lows. Initially heralded as the next Lionel Messi, his career trajectory has been significantly impacted by injuries and limited first-team opportunities. A loan stint with Brighton & Hove Albion, intended to reignite his career, has ultimately added another layer of complexity upon his return to the Camp Nou. Not being selected for the Supercopa de España matches against both Athletic Club and Real Madrid underscores the precarious position the young attacker currently occupies within the Blaugrana setup.
Early Promise: The Mirage of a Messi Reincarnation:
Ansu Fati’s entry into professional football was nothing short of sensational. His youthful exuberance, his ability to outmanoeuvre opponents in one-on-one situations, his natural goal-scoring ability, and his knack for finding the back of the net quickly established him as the rising star of Barcelona’s youth system. Following Neymar's departure and anticipating Messi’s eventual exit, supporters yearned for a new figure to idolise, and Ansu seemed to embody the perfect successor to the Argentinian maestro.
Records tumbled as he became the youngest player to score in both the Champions League and for the Spanish national side, among other achievements. The excitement surrounding him was palpable. The "New Messi" was seemingly destined for greatness, poised to spearhead Barcelona's future.
A Change of Fortune: Injuries Derail the Ascent:
However, a cruel twist of fate intervened. A severe knee injury, specifically a meniscus tear, sustained in November 2020 abruptly halted his rapid progress. What was initially projected as a short-term absence morphed into a near year-long struggle, marked by multiple relapses and surgical interventions.
This setback not only kept him off the field for an extended duration but also significantly impacted his self-belief and physical fitness. Since then, Ansu Fati has struggled to recapture the form that once captivated audiences worldwide. Recurring muscle problems have further hampered his ability to maintain consistent playing time and hindered his overall development.
The Brighton Loan: A Quest for Game Time and Self-Assurance:
Recognising the imperative for regular playing time and a restoration of confidence, Barcelona opted to send Ansu Fati on loan to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League. The hope was that this temporary move would provide him with the platform to rediscover his previous form in a different environment, free from the intense pressure of Barcelona.
While he demonstrated moments of brilliance during his time in England, he failed to achieve the sustained performance and prominent role that had been anticipated. His performances were uneven, fluctuating between impressive displays and less impactful outings. The loan, initially envisioned as a valuable opportunity, did not fully achieve its intended purpose.
Return to Barcelona: A Difficult Landscape Under Flick's Guidance:
Following his time in England, Ansu Fati returned to Barcelona with the ambition of securing a place within the squad. Yet, the arrival of Hansi Flick as the new manager has further complicated his circumstances.
The German tactician does not appear to prioritise Ansu in his strategic plans. His omission from the Supercopa de España squads serves as a clear indication that he is not a central figure in the manager's tactical vision. Despite having fully recovered from his physical ailments, Ansu has lost ground to his attacking counterparts in the competition for starting positions.
Contributing Factors to the Downturn:
Ansu Fati's decline is not attributable to a single cause but rather to a convergence of factors that have negatively influenced his performances and overall progress:
Looking Ahead: An Uncertain Horizon:
Ansu Fati's future at Barcelona remains uncertain. Although he is still under contract with the club, his present situation suggests a potential departure. Another loan move or even a permanent transfer could be considered to allow him to recapture his previous form elsewhere.
However, Ansu Fati possesses undeniable talent. If he can overcome his physical vulnerabilities and regain his self-belief, he could still have a successful career at Barcelona. Only time will reveal whether the "New Messi" can rediscover his former brilliance and once again captivate the footballing world.
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