He'd be better off with regular playing time
kinda strange, im guessing tito wanted him to go as he was close to leaving and i dont see him playing at all tbh. Seems like hes happy with his current role.
Tito's picks in midfield and at fullback are clear. At least 4 fullbacks are ahead of JDS. If Masch is now a full-time CB, then all 6 other midfielders on the first team plus Sergi Roberto are ahead of JDS.
Neither JDS nor Fontas are likely to play at all this year, Tito is not going to change his mind. Afellay heard the message, and he split.