FC Barcelona has just finished the signing of Brazilian winger Malcom from Bordeaux and that has reportedly left Ousmane Dembele upset. The French forward, who arrived last summer for a record-setting 105 million euros has had to be calmed down, of late.
As per Spanish media outlets, Dembele who has failed to pin down a spot for himself at Nou Camp is apparently worried that Malcom’s arrival will put him further down the pecking order. He had already missed out on a large chunk of the last season due to injuries and inconsistency but was a part of the French squad that won the World Cup in Russia a few weeks back.
Dembele was signed last season from Borussia Dortmund after he had firmly established himself as one of the most exciting youngsters in the world. His performances have however left much to be desired in terms of the end product and creativity which is why he has found himself relegated to the bench on numerous occasions. Manager Ernesto Valverde had not favored him either but is said to have included the starlet in his plans this season.
via Imago
Dembele fears Malcom’s arrival could cut down his playing time for Barcelona
“We must have a strong squad,” said sporting director Eric Abidal. “Malcom and Dembélé play in the same position but the season is long and we need a lot of players. Dembélé has to be calm because he is a very important player in the squad. the maximum possible titles.”
It remains to be seen if the promising youngster heeds the words of advice, or does he take the route out of Barcelona like fellow wide-forwards Pedro, Affelaay, and Bojan Krikic has done over the last few years. The Catalan club begins their Spanish La Liga campaign at home against Alaves on August 18th but with Liverpool keeping tabs on Dembele, much could happen by then. Keep watching this space for more news on the same.
