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Riqui is cruel.
Had Pep been our manager Puig would already have played at least 10 games (appearances at least) for us this season in the league and CL. Special kind of talent IMO.
He has to get playing time in the first team next season. That is why I am in favor of cashing in on a 31 year old Rakitic rather than giving him a wage increase and contract extension (his current contract ends in 2021). Not to mention that we already have Busquets who is going nowhere, Arthur, De Jong arriving his summer and Aleñá. Not to forget Vidal and possibly a new midfielder in either Lo Celso or Rabiot.
Preferably I would part ways with Rakitic, promote Puig and not sign the likes of Rabiot.
Busquets, Vidal, De Jong, Arthur, Aleñá and Puig is more than enough for 3 positions. Perfect blend of experience, youth and talent. I can live with Rakitic staying for another season or until 2021 but we will lose out on a transfer fee and if Valverde remains our manager (with everything points too) he will continue to be played at the expense of the likes of De Jong, Aleñá and Puig who are our future.