With the La Liga title out of sight, the Europa League title gone and a seemingly good chance at making the Champions League places, some have been looking for meaning within Barcelona’s final matches of the season.
The Catalans have six matches remaining in which securing a top four spot is the priority, but should they beat Rayo Vallecano this evening Barcelona will go six points clear of Real Betis in fifth place.
One thing the Blaugrana can look forward to though is the potential return of Ansu Fati. The Spanish international has been out with a knee injury since January but could return for the final few games of the season.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez was asked for an update in his press conference yesterday and gave this response to Mundo Deportivo.
“If everything goes well, this week he will train with the group and if everything goes well, he will be there for the next match against Mallorca.”
“He’s not just doing little bits now, he is doing full exercises and he is a differential player, something very positive for us.”
Barcelona have been linked with a number of top class forwards this summer but with financial constraints tight, a fully fit Ansu Fati might ease their need to sign another goalscorer.
Barcelona don’t need another striker (or, more specifically, that’s a lower priority). They need to shore up their defense. They need at least one more center back (along with Araujo) and they need two wing backs. Further, resigning Araujo and Dembele are top priorities.
Then, and only then, should they consider another forward. They already have Aubameyang, Torres and Fati and should resign Luke DeJong. Aubameyang and DeJong will be good for at least another year.