Barcelona has been scouting multiple players to fill the void at the right-back position this summer. Dani Alves was brought to the club last season as a temporary solution for Xavi Hernandez. However, Dani Alves has moved to Mexico this summer after his short-term deal with Barcelona expired.
Manager, Xavi Hernandez had made it clear to the hierarchy that he does not trust Sergino Dest for the right back role. The club in an attempt to fill the void wanted to sign Cesar Azpilicueta all summer. However, the Spanish defender signed a contract extension with Chelsea and rejected Barcelona’s advances.
Barcelona quickly shifted their focus towards Juan Foyth of Villarreal for the right-back role. The Argentinian defender has impressed as a right back in La Liga and caught the eye of the Blaugrana. However, the young defender has sustained an injury at the start of the season which will keep him out of action for at least two months. This forced Barcelona to reconsider their strategy for the right-back role.
Hector Bellerin arrived at Barcelona on deadline day to fill the void
After Juan Foyth was ruled out with an injury, Barcelona identified Thomas Meunier of Borussia Dortmund and Hector Bellerin of Arsenal as two candidates for the right-back role. Stars also aligned for Barcelona as the club was able to offload Sergino Dest to AC Milan who wanted cover for Alessandro Florenzi.
Borussia Dortmund and the Blaugrana could not agree on a deal for the right back. Thus, Barcelona went all out for Hector Bellerin. Arsenal and Hector Bellerin agreed to terminate his contract ahead of a transfer to Spain. Barcelona signed the Spanish wingback on a free transfer in a 1-year deal.
Hector Bellerin is returning to his boyhood club as he is a product of the famous La Masia. He signed for Arsenal in 2011 after leaving Barcelona and has now returned to his local club. It is a good transfer for the club as well since the player is already accustomed to the playing philosophy. He has spent his nascent years at the academy and will not have difficulty adapting to the methods of the Manager.
The wing-back is also young and is just entering the peak years of his career. At 27 years of age, he can also become a long-term option for Barcelona if he settles with the squad. However, the Spaniard will have to face tough competition from Sergi Roberto for the spot. He has started the season well in the right-back role and Xavi Hernandez is now blessed with options for the troubled position!!
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