Reportedly, Ronald Koeman asked Ansu Fati to focus on being himself as words of advice after announcing his dismissal from his position as Barcelona coach.
Fati, 18, has a big boot to fill at the Nou Camp following the departures of Antoine Griezmann and Lionel Messi in the summer.
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Having admired Barcelona at a young age, comparisons were made between Fati and Messi.
The youngster also wore Messi’s famous No. 10 jersey, so there is an expectation for Fati to start the delivery.
Koeman tried to keep him grounded, and according to sports He told the little boy: “Be yourself. Don’t pay attention to Messi’s comparisons.
“There is only one Messi. Be Ansu.”
Fati made a huge feat in Barcelona at the age of 16, becoming the second youngest debutant in Barcelona history against Real Betis in August 2019.
The following week, he became the youngest scorer in La Liga, and last year he became the second youngest player to play for Spain.
In his first campaign, Fati scored seven goals in 24 league matches, setting the record for under-18 goals.
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It’s no surprise that there is a weight of expectations on his shoulders regarding Koeman.
But Fati has struggled for form and fitness that term, and that may be why Gerard Pique shares the same concern as his now former manager.
in a The last press conference He said: “Clubs like Barcelona and Madrid always need the personality of a decisive player at the top and score goals, especially when the most important player in history like Leo Messi has gone, but we have to be realistic.
“He is 18 years old and we cannot burden him with a responsibility that should not fall on him.
“It would not be in his interest and for the club.”
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