According to Don Balon, Barcelona are ready to offload some of their unwanted youth players who are not included in Ernesto Valverde’s plans for the 2019/20 campaign. It is a list that includes Abel Ruiz, who has received five different offers to leave Catalonia this summer. It is believed that Real Betis, Valencia, Real Valladolid, Leganes and Sevilla are those five clubs interested in the services of the young forward.
Abel Ruiz’s spell at Barcelona so far
Originally a product of the Valencia youth academy, Ruiz moved to La Masia way back in 2012. He gradually rose through the ranks, thanks to his blistering performances in the youth competitions. The youngster has been a part of the Barcelona B side since 2017.
Ruiz notably scored three goals in 21 matches, which may seem quite underwhelming for a centre-forward. But, his overall contribution in the attack was far greater as Barcelona B finished eighth in the Segunda Division B – Grupo III last season.
The 19-year-old is also the captain of the Spanish Under-19 side and has netted seven goals in just 18 appearances. As a result, Ruiz earned his La Liga debut during the matchday 37 of the 2018/19 campaign as he came on as a substitute against Getafe.
Does Ruiz have a future at Barcelona?
It is probably needless to say that Luis Suarez, at the age of 32, is nearing the final phase of his career. The Uruguayan international has already struggled with a host of fitness issues within the past 12 months. He is currently out with a calf injury as well.
Suarez’s problems with fitness would lead one to believe that Ruiz may have a future in the Barcelona first-team. However, the big-money arrival of Antoine Griezmann coupled with the club’s attempted pursuit of Neymar means that the Spaniard is unlikely to have any chance of making a breakthrough anytime soon.
Furthermore, the Catalans were also interested in the services of Mario Mandzukic this week. The Croatian international would surely be an ideal alternative for Suarez, further making it difficult for Ruiz to get any recognition in the first-team.
Should Barcelona keep hold of Ruiz?
Keeping hold of Ruiz would be an inconsiderate move from Barcelona’s perspective. Even though the 19-year-old is an exceptionally talented footballer, he is currently in need of some valuable experience at the highest level of football.
Remaining another season at Barcelona B could, therefore, halt his progress. Instead, he should move to any of these five La Liga clubs that are more than interested in securing his services this summer. Leganes would perhaps be the best bet as they are most likely to offer him regular gametime this season.
