Miralem Pjanic is set to leave Barcelona as a shock move to Sharjah FC of the United Arab Emirates Pro League edges closer.
The 32-year-old joined the Catalan giants from Juventus back in 2020 back his spell with the club has largely been a disappointment.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona manager Xavi has confirmed Pjanic’s exit and has subsequently left him out of the club’s squad.
Xavi said: “Pjanić has decided to leave for more opportunities — he has been a great professional, so I think he had chances here but everyone chooses their own path”
If Pjanic is to seal a move to Sharjah FC, he will be reunited with former Barcelona team mate, Paco Alcacer, who joined earlier int he summer.
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Prior to his imminent exit, Pjanic was named on the bench for every single one of Barcelona’s games so far this season, however, he has failed to play a single minute.
Last season, he failed to establish himself in the Barcelona side and was loaned out to Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas, with whom he made 26 appearances.
With the likes of Sergio Busquets, Frenkie de Jong, Pablo Gavi and Pedri ahead of him in the midfield pecking order, Pjanic was left with no choice but to seek a move away from the Camp Nou.
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Pjanic spoke in July about the last couple years of his career.
He said: “In the last two years, I have struggled with injuries, covid-19, and went out on loan. But now it’s different. I am convinced that I can get back to my best. I’ve been working with a physical trainer this summer.
“It’s time to show the fans the old Pjanic.”
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The Bosnian also heaped praise on Xavi.
Pjanic added: “Xavi has always been a role model midfielder for me.
“I would follow him with admiration. For me, he is one of the best midfielders of all time in the world. Working with him is very special.”
Barcelona has made a decent start to their season. In La Liga, they are currently second in the league table with ten points, two behind leaders and reigning champions, Real Madrid.
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Next up for Xavi’s side will be their Champions League opener against Viktoria Plzen on Wednesday night.
Marcus Chan