The week has simply been disastrous for Barcelona fans across the globe.
If watching arch-rivals Real Madrid lift the UEFA Champions League title at the weekend was not enough, the Merengues have now confirmed the signing of Kylian Mbappe.
At a time when Barcelona are struggling to make ends meet and are forced to dig deep even for simple signings, it is indeed a massive blow to see Los Blancos further strengthen their side with one of the best players in the world.
The fact that the Frenchman arrived on a free transfer only rubs salt into the club’s wounds.
Mbappe’s signing indeed elevates Real Madrid’s artillery to a whole new level, but one must remember that Barcelona’s arch-rivals are called the ‘Galacticos‘ for a reason.
History is a testament to Real Madrid always being the favoured side economically and in terms of big-name transfers. At such a time, one looks back to Gavi’s words on the Merengues and how Barcelona must look to compete with them.
“Real Madrid signing whoever they want, I absolutely don’t care. We are Barça, many young players have come out of La Masia and we have a great team. We have to be proud,” he said, as revealed by Miquel Blazquez.
The youngster’s words make a serious point, for it was Barcelona’s golden La Masia generation that spoilt the camp for Real Madrid’s previous ‘Galactico’ generation.
The academy’s resurgence in recent years can only be an encouraging factor.
Gavi has been out of action for the Catalans ever since he suffered a gruesome ACL injury on international duty last year. The blow ended his season and his dream of playing in the Euros.
Recent reports suggested that the player could miss the first part of the new season as well owing to a slow recovery, but it now appears that the player will be back training with the team by the beginning of next season.
Hansi Flick can thus count on Gavi earlier than expected, albeit with caution. After all, the phenom will require time to regain his best version and agility on the field.