Former Barcelona winger reveals how Xavi’s decision played a role in his exit

Adama Traore, the former Barcelona winger, has shed light on his departure from the club, attributing it to internal changes within the team. 

It must be noted that Traore joined Barcelona in January 2022, arriving on loan to bolster the squad under the management of Xavi. 

His arrival was met with enthusiasm as he sought to make an impact on the team’s attacking play. During his initial weeks at the club, he enjoyed a promising start, contributing significantly to the team’s efforts. 

Throughout his loan period, he made 17 appearances and provided four assists, which demonstrated his potential. 

However, as time went on, Traore’s role diminished, leading to speculation about extending his loan or making the transfer permanent. Ultimately, he returned to Wolverhampton Wanderers at the end of his loan spell. 

What led to Traore’s exit?

Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Traore expressed feelings of disappointment, stating that he had a lingering sense of unfulfillment. 

He explained that his intentions were always to help the team as much as possible, given the circumstances surrounding his loan. However, he acknowledged that there was a shift in his situation due to the coach’s decisions. 

Adama Traore was not retained by Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

“I have a thorn in my side. Maybe a bad taste in my mouth because any Barça youth player wants to stay. 

“I knew I was on loan and the club’s situation and my intention was to help as much as possible,” he began by saying as quoted by SPORT. 

Initially, Traore was brought in to replace Ousmane Dembele, but as time passed, Dembele agreed to extend the contract with Barcelona, which limited Traore’s opportunities on the pitch. 

“It’s true that in the middle of my loan spell, there was a change, more personal, because of the coach. I came to replace Dembele’s position. 

“It was my turn to play in that position and Xavi stayed with him. They are learning stages.”

Not ruling out a return

Despite the challenges he faced, Traore has not closed the door on a potential return to Barcelona. He conveyed his enduring affection for the club, stating that, as a homegrown talent, he will always consider himself a Barça player. 

He expressed a willingness to return if the circumstances were right, emphasizing that he would welcome an offer from the club to rejoin. 

“As a homegrown player, I will always be a Barça player. If you had the choice, why not? But it would have to be with different circumstances,” he concluded.