Tom Jenkins
It has been revealed that one of Barcelona's best-ever talents tried to return to the club during the summer transfer window but was denied by new manager Hansi Flick.
Barcelona yet again sit in a precarious position as the new season gets underway, with the club still yet to register new signing Dani Olmo due to financial issues.
Despite these off-field problems, the club have started the season impressively with two wins out of two against Valencia and Athletic Club.
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Following their latest win against Bilbao, Flick addressed the feeling within the dressing room.
"We have a great atmosphere in the team and the attitude is fantastic, everyone is responding really well. We have two wins, six points and that helps. It's not easy with our high pressing and the risks we take - anything can happen but we are doing well," revealed Flick.
The former Bayern Munich boss also addressed the situation regarding Olmo, but urged fans to remain positive.
"We have to keep improving and we are working to do better in the next game. That's our objective and that's how things will go well for us. It's true that there are important pieces missing but even though we are not at 100%, the situation is good and we are improving," added the Barça boss.
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Despite all the chaos regarding transfer business at the Nou Camp, it has been revealed that one former player was desperate to return this summer.
According to Gerard Romero (h/t SPORT), Neymar offered himself to Barcelona earlier this month due to the club's failure to sign Nico Williams from Bilbao.
According to the report, the 32-year-old tried to use the situation to his advantage and use his relationship with the club to secure a move back to Catalonia.
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Despite the Brazilian's determination, the report claims that it was new boss Flick who swiftly opposed the idea of signing the skillful winger as he did not see him as a good fit for the project.
The rejection means Neymar will remain an Al-Hilal player for the upcoming season after moving from PSG in 2023 for a reported €100m fee.
Neymar has only made three appearances for the Saudi Pro League side after he suffered a significant knee injury while on international duty last year.