Barcelona superstar decides to leave, only official announcement remains - Reports
Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets has reportedly decided to leave the club at the end of the season.
According to Marca, Busquets, 34, has communicated his decision to Barca, with only an official announcement remaining. The Spanish midfielder's contract expires in the summer.
Busquets is believed to have told the club of his decision during training on Tuesday (May 9). It remains to be seen how he communicates his decision. He could do so when the Blaugrana win the La Liga title, which could happen next Sunday (May 14) against Espanyol at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat.
The veteran midfielder has spent 15 years in Barcelona's first team but has decided that now is the time to part ways. He has been linked with a move to Saudi side Al Hilal to link up with his former teammate Lionel Messi.
Busquets has been a massive success during his time at the Camp Nou. He has made 719 appearances, winning three Champions League and eight La Liga titles. He has featured 39 times across competitions this season, providing four assists.
Barcelona will be eager to replace Busquets, as he has been crucial in Xavi's midfield. One name that's being touted as his potential replacement is Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi. However, reports suggest that Arsenal are close to reaching an agreement for the Spanish midfielder.
Former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique heralded Sergio Busquets as best midfielder in the world
Busquets will go down as a Barcelona legend as he bids farewell to the Camp Nou after 15 illustrious years. The Spaniard has been pivotal in defensive midfield, a constant presence in the Blaugrana's team.
His former Barca boss Luis Enrique heaped huge praise on Busquets in 2016 by deeming him the best midfielder in the world (via SportsMole):
"(Busquets) is a unique player, the most comprehensive out there, and for me, the best midfielder in the world. He's essential for us, not only for his intelligence but because he can play in different positions."
Enrique continued by praising his influence in Barca's attacking play:
"When he plays as a pivot, the team win in an attacking sense and are solid defensively. He's key."
Busquets has not only been a success for Barcelona but also a key player for the Spain national team.
He has earned 143 international caps, chipping in with 11 goal contributions. He announced his retirement from international football following Enrique's La Roja's last 16 exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in December.