recent report from Diario Sport has put out detailed insights into the lack of quality depth in Barcelona’s attacking unit.
Although coach Xavi has no shortage of players in the number nine department, there is a dearth of a reliable option who can prove to be a competent alternative for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who had a poor game against Eintracht Frankfurt.
In light of this issue, SPORT assess there could be many players who could leave the club in the summer, with Martin Braithwaite likely to be the main candidate.
After enjoying a promising start to the campaign, the Dane’s progress was marred by an unfortunate knee injury, which coincided with the sacking of Ronald Koeman.
After returning from injury in January, Braithwaite has featured in only ten minutes of league action, falling behind Aubameyang, Memphis and even Luuk de Jong in the pecking order.
He was even an unused substitute in the draw with Eintracht, even though Barcelona desperately required a potent option upfront.
Braithwaite’s lack of minutes could be an indicator of his uncertain future at Barcelona, with the player being aware of the fact that a summer exit from Camp Nou could be essential if he wants to play in the World Cup later this year.
Sport claim Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand has no dearth of options when it comes to the attacking unit. He can afford to leave out the players who aren’t playing much, and as things stand at the moment, Braithwaite falls into that particular category.
Barcelona, therefore, are likely to cash in on the Dane in the summer, though he is certainly not the only striker to be on the chopping block of Xavi, with the list also including Memphis Depay and Luuk de Jong.
