Barcelona attacker to retain No. 10 shirt next season after returning from underwhelming loan spell: Reports

Barcelona forward Ansu Fati will reportedly retain the number 10 shirt at the club for the 2024-25 season after returning from his loan spell in England. The Spanish forward spent the 2023-24 season with Premier League outfit Brighton & Hove Albion, where he struggled to make an impact.

Fati broke out at the Spanish club as a 16-year-old playing alongside club legend Lionel Messi, and he quickly made a name for himself. Upon the exit of Messi from the club, the Spain international took on the number 10 shirt in recognition of his potential.

Still only 21, Ansu Fati has struggled with a variety of injuries throughout his career, and this has affected his productivity. The forward was shipped out to England on loan at the start of the 2023-24 season on the request of then-manager Xavi.

Barcelona have now come under the management of Hansi Flick, and with his arrival, the Spaniard hopes for a new lease of life. A report from Mundo Deportivo revealed that the forward will keep his number 10 shirt in the 2024-25 season.

The number 10 shirt at Barcelona was vacated for the 2023-24 season, with no player wearing the number. There had been talks of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal taking on the shirt from the 2024-25 season, but latest reports indicate otherwise.

Ansu Fati has reiterated his desire to remain at his boyhood club despite his struggles and interest from elsewhere. Sevilla have made contact with La Blaugrana over a temporary move, but the forward will look to remain in Catalunya.

Fati managed just two goals in 19 league appearances for the Seagulls in England last season. The forward will hope to revive his Barcelona career if he gets a chance to from 2024-25.

Barcelona manager meets former player over club return - Reports

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has met with former midfielder Thiago Alcantara over a return to the club as part of his staff. The German manager has been keen on adding a former club player to his staff, and Alcantara has become available.

Alcantara retired from professional football merely 24 hours ago, having seen his contract with Liverpool expire at the end of the 2023-24 season. The Spaniard struggled with injuries in his final seasons as a professional football.

Jijantes reports that Flick is keen on having him as one of the members of his coaching staff. The former midfielder began his career at the club and will be open to a return to Catalunya, if an opportunity arises.