Flick rewards Barcelona outcast’s recent efforts in training with a call-up vs Rayo Vallecano | OneFootball

Despite having been informed that he would not be a major part of the plans and having been excluded from squads for several games, Ansu Fati refused to leave Barcelona during the January transfer window.

It was made clear to the 22-year-old by manager Hansi Flick and the sporting management that, as things stand, the chances of him playing would be extremely small.

As iterated earlier, the Barça head coach even left him out of the squad list for a series of matches, sending a clear message. However, Ansu did not budge and opted to stay put and fight for his future.

Rewards for efforts

Flick has been transparent in recent months when asked about Ansu’s situation. He acknowledged that the decision to leave was up to the forward, emphasising that if he wanted to play, he needed to regain the intensity he had shown during pre-season.

Back in the squad. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

More recently, Flick had insisted that he had noticed an improvement in the player. Earlier today, Fati made a comeback to the squad list for tonight’s match against Rayo Vallecano.

As highlighted by SPORT, in recent weeks, it has become common to see Ansu staying behind after training to complete additional drills. He has also made visits to the Ciutat Esportiva on days when Flick has given the squad time off.

Additionally, the La Masia forward has found a mentor in Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker has been closely supporting him, even teaming up with him during shooting drills.

And it appears that the Spaniard’s extra efforts have been rewarded by the manager with a call-up to the squad list for tonight’s game.

Ansu’s return comes with a significant caveat – would he have been included if not for Fermin Lopez’s suspension? Nevertheless, this could serve as a morale boost for the academy graduate, who remains determined to succeed at the club.