Names that could strengthen the squad this summer have started circulating in FC Barcelona's offices. Most of them don't spark much excitement. However, there's one that's caused a real storm in the locker room.
It's not due to a lack of quality. Nor because of his situation in the market.
In fact, he could leave almost for free. The problem is something else, something personal.
Pedri González didn't take long to show his anger when he heard the name. He considers it a provocation. He's not the only one on the team.
From world star to Manchester United castoff
Just a year ago, Alejandro Garnacho was one of the most promising footballers in European soccer. His name appeared among the future heirs to Messi and Cristiano's throne. However, his progress has come to a sudden halt.
Manchester United has separated him from the group. He wasn't in Erik ten Hag's plans and now he's not in Amorim's either. His entourage has started shopping him around all over Europe.
Among those clubs offered, to everyone's surprise, is Barça.
An operation that, on paper, could make economic sense. However, it clashes head-on with the emotional reality of the blaugrana locker room.
Pedri doesn't forget: the gesture that changed everything
The reason for the rejection isn't about soccer. It's personal and goes back to February 2023, after a Manchester United victory over Barça in the Europa League. Garnacho celebrated a goal with a gesture imitating Pedri.
Hands on his face pretending to look through glasses. A phrase that didn't go over well: "The big team has gone through". A slight to Barça, its teammates, and above all, to a player who was then his generational reference.
Pedri hasn't forgotten that episode. He considers it an unforgivable lack of respect. He doesn't want to share a locker room with someone who mocked him and the club.
The rest of the locker room, with Pedri
Pedri's stance has been supported by several heavyweights in the locker room. Barça has a long memory.
Garnacho's gesture didn't please anyone. Even less so his provocations on social media.
Beyond talent, the club takes care of the locker room atmosphere. The arrival of a problematic player, with a controversial past, isn't in the plans. Not even if he comes for free.
The message from inside is clear: "Not this one."
Garnacho, another case of a frustrated promise
At just 20, Garnacho has gone from emerging star to castoff. His attitude, his entourage, and his decisions off the field have brought him to a breaking point.
Being offered to Barça was the latest desperate move. However, neither Pedri nor the rest of the locker room are willing to accept him.
The damage is already done. The Camp Nou door is closed.