Fati feels 'both sadness and joy' after Barcelona exit

Ansu Fati revealed he "felt both sadness and joy" after completing a permanent move from Barcelona to Monaco this summer.

The forward signed a four-year contract with Monaco following a reported €11m move from Barca, where he progressed through the academy.

Fati made his senior debut for the Blaugrana in the 2019-20 season, and his impressive performances saw him later inherit the iconic number 10 shirt following Lionel Messi's departure to Paris Saint-Germain.

At 16 years and 318 days, Fati became the youngest player to both score and assist in a LaLiga game in the 21st century.

However, a meniscus tear in November 2020 saw him ruled out for nine months, while he suffered two hamstring injuries in the following campaign.

Overall, Fati made 123 appearances for Barca and directly contributed to 35 goals (29 goals, six assists), while winning two LaLiga titles, two Copa del Reys and one Supercopa de Espana.

After calling time on his Barca career, Fati reflected on his decision to leave his boyhood club.

"The truth is, when I signed with Monaco, I felt both sadness and joy," the 23-year-old told AS.

"I've been at Barca for many years and I'm leaving behind many friends and people who work at La Masia. They've all written to me, sent me messages, and I've said goodbye too.

"The first few days were sad, but that's life. You have to accept what's coming and keep looking ahead."

Aged 17 years and 311 days, Fati also became the youngest player to score for Spain, netting in September 2020.

Fati last appeared for the national team during Euro 2024 qualifying, but he hopes to earn a recall with strong performances for Monaco.

"Yes, why not," Fati replied when asked if his goal was a return to the national team.

"That's my goal too: to keep working, to be able to play, and to be available for almost every match.

"If I achieve that, I think there will be no doubt that I can reach the level I want."