Barcelona Loanee Ansu Fati Confronts Prolonged Sideline Period due to Severe Injury
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi expressed his anticipation of an extended absence for Barcelona loanee Ansu Fati following his recent injury setback.
At just 21 years old, Fati embarked on a loan stint with Brighton during the summer, aiming to revive his career marred by persistent injury woes since a knee injury in November 2020 sidelined him for almost a year.
Having earned his second start of the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest, Fati’s appearance was short-lived, lasting only 21 minutes before he limped off the field. Reports indicate a muscular problem that might sideline him for around three months.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Brighton boss De Zerbi acknowledged, “Ansu and [Tariq] Lamptey are both injured. We have lost them for a considerable period, I believe.”
This extended absence is sadly familiar for Fati. Following an 11-month hiatus due to a knee injury, subsequent hamstring issues sidelined him from November 2021 to April 2022. Upon his return, he struggled to exhibit top form at Barcelona.
This summer saw Fati loaned out to Brighton, where he primarily served as a substitute under De Zerbi’s management.
Notably, Fati’s loan agreement with Brighton lacks a purchase option. Consequently, the winger will return to Barcelona next summer, with three years remaining on his contract.
