When academy graduate Óscar Mingueza left Barcelona in 2022 for Celta de Vigo, few could have imagined that he'd end up knocking on Camp Nou's doors again.
His departure was discreet, without controversy or major headlines. The club didn't object. Xavi Hernández didn't either.
The player needed minutes and confidence to grow. Since then, his progress has been quiet but unstoppable.
Mingueza has not only established himself as one of the best defenders in the Spanish league. He has also achieved something within reach of very few: wearing the national team's jersey.
His only obstacle had a name and is no longer there
On a sporting level, nobody doubts that Mingueza has grown. He has gained tactical solidity, decision-making skills, and defensive maturity.
For years, any option of returning to Barça was blocked for a very clear reason: Xavi Hernández. The former Barça coach didn't count on him and, no matter how much the club explored ways for his return, it always received a negative response.
That situation has completely changed. With Hansi Flick in charge of the bench, reports on Mingueza have regained importance in the club's offices.
The new Barça coach has already conveyed that he welcomes his return in 2026. Even more so since it would happen without a transfer fee. Mingueza's contract with Celta ends that summer (2026), and he won't renew.
Laporta wants him too
Joan Laporta hasn't hidden his satisfaction in private about how Mingueza has reinvented himself. Since his departure, the president has closely followed his development and sees his possible return as a strategic move. It would not only strengthen a sensitive position, but would do so at no cost and with a footballer trained at home.
The emotional factor also counts. Bringing back an academy graduate who has succeeded elsewhere and returns more mature is a story fans like. In an economic context like the current one, operations of this kind have enormous symbolic and functional value.
The player is delighted with the idea
Meanwhile, Mingueza has always made it clear that Barça is still his home. His departure was forced by a lack of opportunities, not by a lack of love for the badge. Now, with a new project underway and without Xavi Hernández at the helm, the outlook has completely changed for him.
His will is firm: he wants to return. If he can do so without the club having to pay a single euro, even better.
All that's left is to wait until June 2026. At Barça, there are already those who think the operation could be brought forward.