Barcelona: Xavi gives final verdict on Dembele's return to squad

The Barcelona manager says the Frenchman can help the team, confirming the Dembele’s return to his side’s squad.

Barcelona gave up on their hopes to tie Ousmane Dembele to a new contract after months of negotiation. The club hoped to avoid a free summer departure by publicly asking the player to leave in January.

However, despite interest from ‘an English club’, the French winger ended up staying at Camp Nou. There have been rumours around the club’s intention to punish Dembele by freezing him out of their squad. But, Xavi Hernandez believes the club should not hurt themselves by ignoring Dembele’s ability to help the Blaugrana.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of Barca’s upcoming match against Atletico Madrid, the Spanish manager said (via Marca): “We did not find a solution with Ousmane, so the circumstances have now changed.

“We have spoken with the president [Joan Laporta] and made the decision [to reintegrate Dembele]. He has a contract, he is part of the squad and we are not going to shoot ourselves in the foot by not using him.“

“I understand fans may be hurt by [the situation] but I encourage them to come and support the team and support Ousmane, if he plays. He is training well and has been a good professional,” he added.

“We have to close ranks and think what is best for the club. We think he can help us and will use him when we see convenient.”

Barcelona will face Atletico Madrid in a crucial La Liga game on Sunday. Dembele and co will then face Espanyol before hosting Napoli in the Europa League on February 17.