Barcelona is known for signing some of the best players in the world, and their acquisition of Naby Keita was no exception. The Guinean midfielder has become a key player for the Catalan giants, but do you know who was responsible for bringing him to the club? Let’s find out!
The Man Behind the Deal
Josep Maria Bartomeu, the president of Barcelona at the time, played a crucial role in signing Keita. Bartomeu, who served as president from 2014 to 2020, was known for his determination to strengthen Barça’s squad with top talents.
Under Bartomeu’s leadership, Barcelona scouted and identified Naby Keita as a player who could significantly enhance their midfield. With his vision and ambition, Bartomeu set out to secure Keita’s signature.
The Negotiation Process
Bartomeu and his team had to negotiate with both Keita’s club at the time, RB Leipzig, and the player himself. The process involved multiple discussions and meetings to reach an agreement that would benefit all parties involved.
RB Leipzig:
- Barcelona had to convince RB Leipzig to part ways with their prized midfielder.
- The German club valued Keita highly due to his exceptional performances on the pitch.
- Barcelona had to present an attractive offer that would persuade RB Leipzig to sell.
Naby Keita:
- Keita had to be convinced that Barcelona was the right move for his career.
- The midfielder considered factors such as playing time, competition within the squad, and Barcelona’s long-term plans.
- Barcelona had to illustrate how Keita would fit into their style of play and the opportunities that awaited him at Camp Nou.
The Final Agreement
After lengthy negotiations, Bartomeu successfully reached an agreement with RB Leipzig and Naby Keita. Barcelona secured Keita’s services, making him a part of their star-studded squad.
Keita’s transfer to Barcelona was met with great excitement from both the club’s fans and football enthusiasts worldwide. Many believed that his addition would further strengthen Barcelona’s midfield and contribute to their pursuit of silverware.
Conclusion
In summary, it was Josep Maria Bartomeu who signed Naby Keita for Barcelona. Bartomeu’s determination, negotiation skills, and belief in Keita’s abilities played a crucial role in bringing the Guinean midfielder to Camp Nou. The signing of Keita demonstrated Barcelona’s commitment to building a formidable squad capable of competing at the highest level.
As we reflect on this significant transfer, it serves as a reminder of the meticulous process involved in signing top players for elite clubs like Barcelona. The efforts behind the scenes are just as important as the performances we witness on the pitch.