Sergio Busquets Barcelona 2022-23Getty Images

Sergio Busquets to leave Barcelona! Xavi fails to convince legendary midfielder to sign new contract amid MLS links

  • Busquets to be free agent
  • Told Barca he won't return
  • MLS a potential next step

WHAT HAPPENED? The legendary midfielder informed Barcelona of his decision on Tuesday, according to Marca, in a confirmation of what many team-mates expected to happen. The Blaugrana's almost-completed title run in La Liga gives him the chance to go out on a high. He is said to be wary of leaving too far past his prime, when his reputation at Camp Nou might be smudged by a late-career decline.

Xavi reportedly wanted Busquets to stay but the club could not offer him an acceptable contract proposal, which didn't help the coach's argument for the player to re-sign.

🏆 TOP STORY: Messi's Saudi Arabia move 'a done deal'

📣 HAVE YOUR SAY: Which PL team should Neymar join?

🚨 MUST READ: Haaland to Real could still happen

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Busquets could now draw summer interest from MLS, where he's long been expected to finish his career. Former team-mate Lionel Messi, set to be out of contract at PSG, could also make the move to America with Inter Miami interested in him.

Article continues below

IN THREE PHOTOS:

Messi-Busquets-Barca-2012GettySergio Busquets(C)Getty ImagesSergio Busquets Barcelona 2022-23Getty Images

WHAT NEXT FOR BUSQUETS? A formal public announcement could come soon, as Barcelona will want to honour Busquets at Camp Nou before he departs.

Advertisement