Dani Alves Might Not Stay At FC Barcelona

Arguably FC Barcelona’s biggest coup in the winter transfer market – and there are quite a few to choose from – was the signing of veteran Dani Alves on a free transfer until the end of the season.

Still able to put in a shift at 38 while in impeccable physical condition, the sport’s most decorated player in terms of silverware also brings invaluable experience to the locker room to inspire Barca’s younger players and the winning mentality that Xavi Hernandez requires to return the previously struggling club to its glory days.

“What Alves gives us is spectacular,” Xavi said just four days ago on the eve of the gritty 2-1 away win at Elche in La Liga. “He’s an example, in terms of his professionalism and his positivity. I hope he has the performances between now and the end of the season to decide to stay for another year.”

“I would love him to stay,” Xavi went on. “But it depends on the club, on his performances. But he’s giving us a lot and would continue to do so next year, even at his age.”

According to AS, however, Alves’ continuity is not set in stone and has become complicated. The sporting area of the club wants to wait until the end of the season to make a decision on his fate, as it could end up signing the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta – who is able to play as both a central defender and a right back – or Noussair Mazraoui from Ajax.

Alves was also brought in at a time when US international Sergino Dest was struggling for form and even talked about being sold on to Chelsea. Yet recent games have seen the Dutch-born youngster reverse his fortunes, and there is a fear of ‘overbooking’ in the position he shares with Alves if reinforcements also arrive.

It is likely that Alves won’t put up a protest and stay where he is not wanted either. In a World Cup year, he has to remain as visible as possible to Brazil manager Tite and guarantee that he is playing regularly whether that means sticking around on the old continent or heading home.