Barcelona captain yet to receive an extension proposal, future unknown right now

Sergi Roberto has not had it easy this season, battling incessant injuries and struggling for minutes despite being the captain of Barcelona.

Yet, he has not let the manager down when trusted with minutes. The 32-year-old played an impressive cameo against Napoli in the UCL knockout last week and followed it up with a solid show against Atletico Madrid at the weekend.

Considering that they were his first games in close to two months, his performances do come across as inspiring, to say the least.

Future under doubt

The club captain’s current deal with Barcelona expires this summer. While Xavi has been a vocal advocate of his renewal, his decision to leave in the summer leaves Roberto’s future in a grey area as well.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, the midfielder is yet to receive a call or proposal from Joan Laporta’s board over a renewal as of today.

Barcelona value the player’s experience, leadership, and versatility and see him as part of the plan for next season. However, his continuity will largely depend on the coach for next season which in itself is unclear.

The Azulgranas do not see a renewal with bad eyes, but see share the player’s sentiment that this is not the right time to discuss a renewal. After all, Roberto and Barcelona are focused on the business end of the season and do not wish for any distractions.

The player’s stance

A true Blaugrana through and through, Roberto has always been one to place the club ahead of himself and the coming summer is no different.

He will not force his continuity if he feels that the board or management do not trust him, for he has offers on the table from Saudi Arabia and the MLS.

If the club wish for a renewal, however, he will not hesitate to exchange signatures and stay for an additional year. 

Considering his role in fostering young talents and leading by example, the veteran could well stay. As has been the case in recent years, however, his renewal could well go deep into the end of the season before an announcement is made.