Barcelona open to renewing veteran star’s contract; new coach could have final say

Even though he does not play regularly, Sergi Roberto continues to prove his worth for this FC Barcelona side in the few chances he receives, like he did last night against Napoli.

Coming on at the hour-mark, with the scoreline at 2-1, the veteran midfielder livened things up on the pitch and ended up assisting Robert Lewandowski for the team’s third goal which ensured Barça were home and safe and qualified for the Champions League quarterfinals.

It has not always been easy for Roberto and he has copped a lot of flak from the fanbase at times, like he did after the Copa del Rey exit against Athletic Club.

But, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has always seen the 32-year-old as a valuable member of the team and has openly recommended the club to renew his contract which expires at the end of the season.

Barcelona not ruling out Roberto renewal

Now, SPORT reports that Barcelona would be open to renewing the contract of Roberto beyond the ongoing campaign. However, the final say would be up to the new coach who will take over from Xavi this summer.

As per the report, Barça are counting on Sergi Roberto for next season and his renewal is on the table. Neither the club nor the player has set a deadline to make a decision on his future.

The 32-year-old veteran is always in favour of waiting until the end of the season to make a decision. And this season his line is even more coherent given the uncertainty of who will be the next coach.

As such, Roberto would not stay if Xavi’s replacement does not count on him.

Barcelona value Roberto

Roberto might end up staying. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Roberto’s recent renewals have all been one-year contracts with low economic conditions, which help a lot to alleviate the wage bill of the first team. And he would be willing to accept a similar formula once again.

Beyond that, the club sporting management is delighted with Sergi Roberto’s performance as captain and with the quality minutes he is giving when he takes the field.

Roberto is helping the younger players, such as Pau Cubarsí, Hector Fort, and Marc Guiu to integrate into the dressing room. He also has a very good relationship with foreign stars such as Robert Lewandowski, Ilkay Gündogan, and Frenkie de Jong.

Moreover, president Joan Laporta has a special affection for Sergi Roberto and would be delighted if he were to captain the team at the new Spotify Camp Nou for the first time.

The midfielder is seen as a symbol of the work well done at La Masia and a role model for the children who are being trained at the Barcelona academy.