In an interview with RAC1, FC Barcelona director Jordi Cruyff talked about the future of some of the team’s present members and the potential for re-signing icons like Lionel Messi and Pep Guardiola in the future.
On Messi return
When Messi’s contract with PSG expires at the end of the current campaign, there has been a lot of discussion over the past several months regarding his potential return to Camp Nou.
Even if it occurs beyond Messi’s playing career, in Cruyff’s view, there should be some reconciliation and reunion between him and Barcelona.
“There needs to be an affinity for a legend like him. I also made it plain to the president. Messi and Barcelona must meet once more. After his career, perhaps.” He answered, “They both deserve it.”
Barcelona director Jordi Cruyff on Leo Messi's possible return: "BarƧa and Messi have to be together again one day. This is clear", tells RAC1 ????? #FCB
"Maybe could be after the end of his professional career… but BarƧa & Messi deserve one last hug, last dance together". pic.twitter.com/f23M5V8Bbn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 30, 2022
On January transfer plans and Bosquets’ future.
The sporting director of Barcelona spoke about the club’s goals for the upcoming January transfer window: “It is obvious that there are several places that we can strengthen. We are aware of what to do if signing is a possibility.”
Cruyff also disclosed the plans for Memphis Depay with the Blaugrana: “We will see what happens. We will wait and see what transpires with Lewandowski’s three-game suspension since he might be required if there is an injury.”
Regarding Sergio Busquets’ future, Cruyff emphasized that the club captain had earned the right to make that decision when he felt it was appropriate, given that the 34-year-old is getting closer to the end of his contract.
“The player, and no one else, will decide the player’s future after his contract expires. He will give us preferential treatment. We’ll take a seat and observe his reaction.”
On Balde’s development
Cruyff also discussed Alejandro Balde, Barcelona’s most recent breakout star. The left-back, only 19 years old, has established himself as a crucial component of Xavi’s setup at Camp Nou and is presently playing for Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2022.
The director of Barcelona also acknowledged that negotiations for Balde’s reunion were in progress, saying: “We are happy with his development. We have been working on renewing his contract for a long time. The relationship with his agents is perfect. Both the player and Barcelona are appreciative of one another.”
BarƧa director Jordi Cruyff: "We're delighted with Balde and his progress. We've been working for long time on his new contract, we've good relationship with his agents", tells RAC1. ?? #FCB
"Balde is happy with Barcelona and we're really happy with him – feeling is mutual". pic.twitter.com/z58w4w4Wlv
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 30, 2022
On Araujo – Uruguay situation
Cruyff also addressed the controversy surrounding Uruguay’s selection of defender Ronald Araujo for the World Cup team, indicating that there had been differences with the South American country.
“He had surgery performed by a reputed foreign surgeon who established deadlines and an action plan. Barcelona is committed to upholding these deadlines.”
“Communication is crucial, and that’s the most important thing. Even though we don’t always agree, we remain in touch with them.”
According to Cruyff, Araujo’s return date depends on his health, who also reiterated that there is no agreement between BarƧa and Uruguay regarding it. “With them, there is no agreementāhis recovery hinges on his growth.”
On Frenkie De Jong
The Barcelona director also praised fellow countryman and midfielder Frenkie de Jong, saying that while his skill is undeniable, the demands placed on him at the club and on the international stage may affect his performances.
“His brilliance is beyond question. We can all agree that, inside and outside of BarƧa, although he played various roles at BarƧa, Ajax, and the national squad,” he remarked.
?ļø| Jordi Cruyff: āFrenkie de Jong? His talent is indisputable. Everyone at the club agrees. In the last month he has shown his importance. There is no discussion about his talent.ā [@rac1] #fcblive pic.twitter.com/BncfkIbPny
— BarƧaTimes (@BarcaTimes) November 30, 2022
On Pep Guardiola
Laporta addressed former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola about a potential return to the club after being elected president last year, but nothing came of it. But the Manchester City manager has stated that he could be willing to return to the team in the future.
Regarding that potential, Cruyff responded, “He represents an era as a coach. He has to the point where he can decide his fate. Few people reach this stage. Every professional’s fantasy is to achieve this.”
“Whether he goes back to Barcelona or not? I need some help. I believe he is content in City. He may have left in the summer, but ultimately he could not do so.”
