FC Barcelona manager Xavi confirmed the imminent departure of French winger Ousmane Dembélé (26) to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Reports from reputable sources, including L’Équipe and Fabrizio Romano, indicate that PSG has triggered Dembélé’s €50 million release clause from his contract. Negotiations between the clubs are ongoing to finalize the deal with more favourable payment terms. Though the move is expected to be completed by the end of the week.
Xavi and Dembele
Xavi expressed his disappointment in Dembélé’s decision to return to his native France. The talented winger came through the ranks at Stade Rennais. He was nurtured at FC Barcelona with care to make him happy and Fit at the club. However, due to Barcelona’s financial constraints, they were unable to compete with PSG’s substantial bid. Which is deemed to be extraordinary in the current market.
“Dembélé told us that he wants to leave and join PSG. We can’t compete. PSG’s bid is huge and out of the market. He told us he’d already spoken with Luis Enrique and Nasser Al-Khelaïfi and that there was no way of convincing him [to stay],” Xavi revealed during the press conference.
It is understood that Dembélé will sign a five-year contract with PSG. This will keep him with the Ligue 1 champions until 2028. The move marks a significant step in the Frenchman’s career as he embarks on a new chapter with the Parisian giants.
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Conclusion
Despite the hurt caused by Dembélé’s departure, Barcelona’s focus remains on navigating their financial challenges and building a strong squad for the upcoming season. Dembélé’s talent will undoubtedly be missed at Camp Nou. But now the club must now look to the future and find suitable replacements to continue their pursuit of success in both domestic and international competitions.
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