Oriol Romeu (©AFP)
Oriol Romeu (©AFP)

Romeu's return to Barcelona was merely a temporary visit: Girona want him back

Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 01.11.23. | 00:34

The veteran's move to his boyhood club didn't quite work out

It hasn't even been five months since Barcelona announced the signing of Oriol Romeu - but he won't stay long. The operation was a blow to Girona, as they lost one of their midfield pillars. Barcelona paid the buyout clause for the Ulldecona-born player in a move that Girona couldn't avoid. Although Michel's team has been able to rebuild perfectly, they would welcome a hypothetical return of the midfielder next season at Montilivi.

Romeu's accessible release clause of around $4 million led Barcelona to opt for the Catalan as a 'low-cost' option for the defensive midfield position. The departure of Sergio Busquets required a replacement, and Romeu was chosen due to his knowledge of the demands of that position at Barcelona. Oriol's departure disrupted Girona's plans, and despite their reaction in the transfer market, they still need a defensive midfielder.

In Girona, they are well-informed about everything discussed in Barcelona, and in recent days, the name of Oriol Romeu has been prominent. The midfielder started the season well but has seen a drop in his performance and was on the bench for the Clasico. Xavi chose the freshness of Fermin Lopez over the experience of the defensive midfielder.

The sports management of the Girona club is closely monitoring Oriol's situation. They understand that it is still early to think about the next season, but they would be delighted with a hypothetical return of the midfielder. It remains to be seen what plans Barcelona has for Romeu next summer. Many uncertainties surround the Catalan club today. Will there be 'fair play'? Will they sign a defensive midfielder? Will there be any significant departures in the midfield?

In Girona, they suspect that the value Barcelona may give to the 32-year-old player next year will be lower than what Michel attributes to him, as he is delighted with the performance of the defensive midfielder during his time at Montilivi and willing to count on him again if Oriol decides to return and pull on the red-and-white shirt again. For them, Oriol's status far exceeds his value as a Barcelona player.

It was a short trip back home for the former Chelsea and Southampton player. However, his destiny is to play football away from he club where his story started.


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Oriol RomeuBarcelonaGirona

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