Ansu Fati Set To Leave Barcelona As Monaco Move Advances

Ansu Fati, once a promising young talent at Barcelona, is likely to leave for AS Monaco. The 22-year-old winger has agreed to join the French club, and talks between Barcelona and Monaco are moving fast as the Spanish international, and once the world’s top footballing talent, tries to relaunch his career and get more playing time for next season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has said he is not involved in deciding Fati‘s future. He stated, “It’s him, it’s up to Ansu.” Barcelona and AS Monaco are close to agreeing on a loan deal with an option to buy. Fati has given the move his approval after a tough season. He played only 11 times and had just 298 minutes on the field.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

This potential exit is surprising for a player once seen as Barcelona’s top young prospect. After coming through La Masia, Fati debuted in 2019 and wore Lionel Messi’s famous number 10 shirt, showing the club’s belief in him. However, his career stalled, especially after returning from Brighton in the 2023-24 season. Barcelona is second in La Liga, five points behind Real Madrid, with three games left. Monaco has already qualified for the Champions League by finishing third in Ligue 1.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR FATI?

If the deal happens, Fati will join Monaco on loan for the 2025-26 season, with the club having the option to buy. Barcelona will keep a sell-on clause in any future transfer, securing their financial interest. Monaco, who beat Barcelona in the Champions League group stage, offers Fati a fresh start and more playing time. He will aim to revive his career in France as Monaco competes for the Champions League next season, sitting just two points behind Marseille in the Ligue 1 table.