After winning the European Championship and turning 17, Yamal's market value skyrocketed to €120 million. However, Barcelona has sounded the alarm to protect their "next Messi," given the injury woes faced by other talents like Ansu Fati, Pedri, and Gavi. Among these, Fati has had the most unfortunate run. Fresh off his loan spell, Fati was sidelined again in training, even before impressing new coach Hansi Flick.
The diagnosis revealed plantar fasciitis in his right foot, a peculiar and slow-recovering injury that typically requires a month's rest. However, last season, teammate Iñigo Martínez was out for two months with the same condition. Considering Fati's fragile state, Barcelona's official statement of "indefinite return" seems to set a somber tone.
Missing the U.S. preseason tour isn't the end of the world for Fati, who is still under 22 years old and has the potential to overcome injuries and setbacks. Known as the "next Messi" before Yamal, Fati even wore Barcelona's iconic No. 10 shirt. However, persistent injuries can erode one's confidence and fighting spirit, sometimes leading to severe psychological issues. The tragic story of German prodigy Sebastian Deisler, who retired at 27, serves as a cautionary tale that resilience often sounds easier in motivational quotes than in reality.
Injuries are the bane of talent, and Fati's plight is truly heartbreaking. When he debuted in 2019, he seemed destined for greatness, becoming Barcelona's youngest La Liga scorer and the youngest player to score in Champions League history. However, his early career was marred by injuries, disrupting the joy and excitement of his youth. Nevertheless, the young star remained optimistic, saying, "Football is my life. No matter how many obstacles I face, I will always fight for my dream."
Yet, "later" isn't always filled with promise. From November 2020 to March 2021, Fati underwent three surgeries on his left knee, which had recurring inflammation issues. The fourth surgery involved partial removal of his meniscus, sidelining him for 305 days—a true test of fate for the young talent. Sadly, injuries kept returning, and Fati couldn't help but feel defeated, expressing uncertainty about his return to the field.
Over the past four years, Fati has dealt with hamstring injuries, knee contusions, knee effusions, calf injuries, and plantar fasciitis. The concept of "injuries more fearsome than tigers" hits home when you realize he's been injured 11 times and missed 118 games in a career spanning just five years. Adding to the sorrow, Fati had already suffered a right leg fracture at 13 and two knee injuries during his time with Barcelona B. This series of misfortunes led some fans to speculate if Fati was cursed.
Making the 2022 World Cup squad and participating in the Nations League finals were brief moments of redemption, suggesting a "born to be great" 2.0 narrative. However, the promising talent failed to secure his spot in Barcelona, overshadowed by rising stars like Pedri, Gavi, and Yamal. Once valued at €80 million at 18, Fati became a lonely figure in a team with a crowded midfield, with rumors of his departure persisting. Despite his close ties with national team coach Luis de la Fuente, his absence from the Spain squad seemed inevitable.
Rather than risk using the injury-prone player, Xavi sidelined Fati in a crowded midfield, doubting his progress. The Daily Sports' blunt assessment—"he hasn't shown his presence in the first team"—mirrored the sentiment at Barcelona. Had injuries not plagued him, Fati, who joined La Masia at ten, might have enjoyed more patience and trust from the club.
Fati's love for Barcelona is undeniable but also somewhat stubborn. He believes he deserves a starting spot after recovering, while his father blames Xavi for hindering his progress. Barcelona planned a loan spell to Brighton, where Fati became the highest-paid player (£128,000 weekly), scoring against Manchester United, Villa, and City. Yet, a hamstring injury once again disrupted his joy, validating Brighton's decision not to include a buyout clause in his loan deal. Despite his initial impact, Fati fell into a high-performance slump, with 13 consecutive goalless matches in 27 appearances.
Barcelona initially considered selling Fati via Brighton's loan plan, but few clubs were willing to take a chance. Forced back to Barcelona, Fati aimed to prove himself through diligent training. Optimistically, new coach Flick hasn't given up on him, ensuring a level of trust and tailored warm-up routines to keep Fati fit.
Unfortunately, fate intervened again. This latest injury, while relatively minor compared to his history, casts doubt on whether Fati can firmly reestablish himself at his beloved club. His €14 million annual salary remains a significant burden for Barcelona.
Fati is certainly not Messi's successor, but staying healthy is his most daunting challenge. Some disheartened fans even suggest early retirement to spare him further pain.
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