Sergi Roberto is more likely to leave Barcelona than stay.
Saudi Arabian football attempted to lure Sergi Roberto. The homegrown talent, whose contract with Barça expires on June 30, received a lucrative offer months ago from Al Qadsiah coached by Míchel, of Division 1. The arrival of the Madrid-born coach has propelled the team to the top of the category, making them a serious contender for direct promotion to the emerging Saudi Pro League. However, the midfielder’s response was negative, according to Fernando Polo and Gabriel Sans of Mundo Deportivo.
With his future at Barça leaning more towards a new league than renewal, Sergi Roberto weighed personal rather than football-related issues to reject the offer. His wife is a well-known American model of Israeli descent, and with the conflict involving Palestine, which enjoys Arab support, he wouldn’t have felt comfortable in this destination.
His continuity at Barça remains uncertain. Xavi endorsed his renewal, but the club has not taken any steps yet. It is not ruled out that he could stay for another year due to his leadership as captain, the club’s need to retain players, and because of a low salary. The final decision will depend on the new Barça coach. Nevertheless, Sergi Roberto is considering trying his luck in the North American MLS. He has been contemplating this for some time.
