The transition process has already begun at Can Barca. Xavi was hoping to retain Busquets for another season to act as leader and prepare for a smooth succession, but that is not going to be possible. So, without Mateu Alemany, another one who is jumping ship, those in charge of sporting planning will have to get their act together even more than usual .
Because the economic situation does not allow for any splurges either. Although the departure of Busquets will alleviate the wage bill, there are still tens of millions to be saved. That is why the debate is about who can replace 'Busi' and whether we have to go to the market or whether his replacement can be at home.
In-house
The natural alternative a couple of years ago was Nico Gonzalez (21). The player, son of the legendary Fran (Deportivo), decided to go to Valencia in search of minutes. His loan spell has been very irregular, partly due to a long injury, and in principle he should return this summer. He will do so without having fulfilled expectations.
Another option is Eric Garcia (22). The centre-back, although Xavi has said he trusts him, has gone from being an undisputed choice for Luis Enrique in the Spanish national team, to regularly occupying a place on the bench due to the presence of Ronald Araujo (24), Jules Kounde (24) and Andreas Christensen (27). Even Marcos Alonso (32), a full-back, has played more than him at centre-back. So Jordi Cruyff thought he could function as a defensive pivot. So far, he has not displeased in the few opportunities he has had in that role.
Frenkie de Jong (25) or Franck Kessie (26) could also be adapted to that position, although more as a one-off than as a natural resource. The Dutchman has the technique to make it his own, a role similar to that of Toni Kroos (33) at Real Madrid.
In the market
One of the most talked about is Ilkay Gundogan (32), who has not yet renewed his contract with Manchester City. His handicap, the salary he would demand. Even if he arrives on a free, the agent's commission, the signing bonus and what he receives, the economic operation would not be simple.
There are also the options of other veterans such as N'Golo Kante (32), who has a year left at Chelsea, and Sofyan Amrabat (26), whose World Cup put him in the shop window.
The most liked
Of all these candidates, if Xavi is given the choice, the answer is clear: Martin Zubimendi (24). The Real Sociedad midfielder is the ideal choice for the Catalan coach, but he has a big problem: he renewed his contract last October until 2027.
Alongside this, rivals Real have an attractive project that will almost certainly allow him to play in the Champions League next season. His clause is 60 million euros, an unaffordable amount for Barcelona in their current situation.
