Spain Manager Had Multiple Talks With Ansu Fati To Help Him Regain Confidence
Ansu Fati’s last two performances for Barcelona brought back glimpses of the youngster’s imperial best. In 106 minutes against Mallorca and Celta Vigo, the youngster scored three goals for the Catalans. Moreover, there was a sense of confidence in his every touch.
When his relatively simple finish hit the back of the net against Mallorca in the first minute on Matchday 37 of La Liga, it appeared as if he had finally been relieved of his shackles. With renewed belief, he churned up good movements and chances for the team and his positive run of form has only continued in the international break.
Fati may have played only 54 minutes of Spain’s UEFA Nations League final against Croatia. His impact in that relatively short spell was tremendous.
The La Masia prodigy recorded one shot on target, had one shot blocked, and completed a successful dribble on the night. While he may still be far from his free-flowing best, it is a start for the player to turn around his situation.
According to reports from Sergio Santos, Spanish national team manager Luis de la Fuente had a big role to play in Fati’s improved form. The coach is said to have talked several times with the 20-year-old last week to help with his confidence and instil belief in him.
Over the past week, reports have brought out the uncertainty surrounding Fati’s situation in Barcelona. After all, the youngster suffered last season with an acute shortage of minutes, and it is clear that he requires regular playing time to find his footing once more.
The winger, for his part, wishes to continue at the club despite forces like Jorge Mendes advising him to leave. Following Spain’s Nations League triumph, the attacking prodigy addressed his Barcelona future and said:
“I have a contract with Barcelona and my intention is to continue to improve and grow here. That is my intention. I have a contract and I’m happy. Both at my club and with the national team.”
And, now, Xavi’s mind could well change looking at Fati’s recent performances for club and country.
