American footballer Sergino Dest has hinted that his future at the club may only materialize if there is a change in the managerial position, particularly if head coach Xavi were to leave his role.
The 22-year-old United States of America national team right-back, enjoyed regular starts under former Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman, but faced challenges, including injuries, during Xavi’s tenure and had an unsuccessful loan spell at AC Milan last season.
In the 2023/24 season, Dest went on loan to PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie, where he is enjoying a great season sparking talk of a return to Spain.
Despite having a contract with Barcelona until 2025, Dest appears skeptical about returning as long as Xavi remains in charge.
When questioned about the possibility of returning to Barcelona, Dest stated via Voetbal International, “Only if the situation changes there. Xavi is still there now. So at the moment, no, that will be too difficult.”
The uncertainty surrounding Dest’s return to Barcelona aligns with reports of growing unrest within the club, with Xavi facing scrutiny due to disappointing results.
If the situation at Barcelona continues to deteriorate, it could impact Dest’s prospects and potentially lead to a change in the coaching staff.
The defender’s remarks suggest that his future at the club is closely tied to the managerial dynamics, emphasizing the importance of a favorable environment for his potential return, one that will mean having club legend Xavi out of his position as manager.
FC Barcelona will face Unionstas in a Copa Del Rey fixture on Thursday, January 18, 2024, a timely opportunity to get victory and put behind their dissapointing Spanish Super Cup loss to rivals Real Madrid, earlier in the week.
In La Liga, the Catalans are placed fourth, 8-points off surprise league leaders, Girona a situation that has added pressure on Xavi, with certain reports suggesting he could be sacked if the club loses grip of a champions league spot.
