Barcelona defender rules out summer departure as he is ‘incredibly happy’ at club

Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen proved to be one of the signings of the season in 2022/23. Arriving on a free transfer, he elevated the Catalans’ defence to a world-class level and was instrumental in the La Liga title-winning run.

With the team’s defensive struggles resurfacing once again this term, Christensen too saw a mild dip in form.

However, he has enjoyed a resurgence in recent weeks after Xavi opted to deploy him as the pivot in place of the struggling Oriol Romeu.

Speaking to TV2 (h/t SPORT) in a recent interview, the Danish defender opened up on several aspects of his life at Barcelona, his future and his relationship with the manager.

The interview commenced with a question about his future, to which Christensen confidently pledged his loyalty to the Barcelona crest.

“I’m not going anywhere. When I came, I knew what I was getting into and I’m still incredibly happy. I don’t see myself anywhere other than here after the summer,” said Christensen.

It has been a queer season for the former Chelsea star, for Xavi has shifted the player to the defensive midfielder position despite his niche being at centre-back. Regardless, Christensen insisted that he enjoyed the challenge and did not show any signs of disappointment.

“It had been a long time since I had played in this position and of course, I have to get used to many things. But I really enjoy it.”

Elaborating on what Xavi expected of him on the field, the Danish international then said: “I have to keep the balance in front of the defence. Fill the space that remains behind the forwards both when we are with the ball and when we are not with the ball.”

Towards the end of his interaction with the media outlet, Christensen was asked to give his two cents on Xavi’s departure from the club come June and how the dressing room took the news.

“Whether I agree or not, I have to accept it. I think the team have been able to put the issue to one side, because we have other things we need to correct, such as our play,” he said.

“He was the one who brought me here and has therefore been instrumental in making one of my dreams come true. It’s sad, but I can only accept it if it’s what he thinks the club needs,” he added.