"I didn't force Memphis Depay out of Barcelona, he demanded to his transfer exit to Atlético" - Xavi Hernandez

Memphis Depay asked to quit the club, according to Barcelona manager Xavi.

Memphis Depay, 28, made his Atletico Madrid debut against Real Valladolid after being acquired for €3 million from Barcelona.

Morata, Hermoso, and Antoine Greizmann each scored once as Atletico Madrid won the game 3-0. Morata was replaced by Depay at halftime in the 75th minute.

If you recall, Barcelona acquired Memphis Depay from Lyon in 2021 on a free transfer. The 28-year-old struggled to play effectively under Xavi and was unable to secure a spot in the club's first squad as a starter.

Memphis Depay lost his spot at Barcelona, and Xavi confirmed that he wants to depart this month.

 

Xavi said 'Memphis asked to leave after he received Atletico's proposal,'.

'He asked me to leave, he wasn't comfortable, he wanted to be comfortable again.

'We all came out of the situation as winners.' 

'If we can strengthen ourselves, that would be great. If not, it's not urgent. We'll see if we can sign someone, but we must remember Financial Fair Play rules.'