Barcelona icon Francisco Jose Carrasco has made no secret of his disappointment that the membership did not safe the signing of Nico Williams this summer season.
The previous winger, who spent over a decade on the Camp Nou and received 10 main titles, believes the Athletic Membership star would have been an ideal addition to Hansi Flick’s aspect – however admits Liverpool’s Luis Diaz may nonetheless be a powerful different.
Talking after a go to to the MD Campus, the place he took half in coaching periods with younger gamers and provided steerage based mostly on his personal experiences, Carrasco mirrored on Barcelona’s switch window and the missed alternative to herald Williams.
He described the Spain worldwide as a “visible attraction” for younger followers, likening his reputation to that of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
“I stroll down the road and see Barca shirts with Lamine’s identify on the again in every single place, even in Madrid,” Carrasco stated.
Carrasco was significantly upset that the transfer for Williams fell by means of, revealing that he shared supervisor Hansi Flick’s view that the winger was a perfect goal.
He steered the breakdown in negotiations was because of issues with brokers and contractual clauses somewhat than an absence of effort from the membership.
“The negotiation wasn’t profitable. Typically there are unfastened ends… and ultimately, it fell by means of. I strongly agreed with Flick that he ought to come.”
🚨 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Barça are planning a 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗖𝗛 for Luis Díaz within the coming days or perhaps weeks, after the Nico Williams deal fell by means of (by way of @FabrizioRomano).
Initially of the switch window, Barcelona focused Luis Díaz and made an strategy a month in the past — however… pic.twitter.com/h1JjVYrIc3
— 433 (@433) July 4, 2025
From a tactical standpoint, Carrasco believed Williams’ arrival would have relieved stress on Yamal, who’s presently the primary focus of opposition defences, simply as Lionel Messi as soon as was.
He additionally questioned Raphinha’s suitability as a constant left winger, suggesting that Williams’ fashion and pure width would have helped unlock more room for Yamal.
“For good passers, Nico would have been a focus for the opponent, which might release Lamine,” Carrasco defined.
Regardless of his choice for Williams, Carrasco additionally praised Luis Diaz as a high quality participant who may nonetheless add important worth to the squad.
Nonetheless, he acknowledged that the Colombian would probably come at a better value. “He’s an exquisite participant, too,” Carrasco stated. “However I might have most well-liked Nico amongst those that have been floated as potential signings.”
As for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford – one other identify linked to the Catalan membership – Carrasco was much less satisfied.
Whereas he acknowledged Rashford’s top-level pedigree and previous performances, he raised doubts about his skill to adapt to the calls for of taking part in as a disciplined left winger in Barca’s system.
“He’s extra of a problem,” Carrasco stated. “I don’t see him as ready to carry out in that place as Luis Diaz. I’ve no doubts concerning the Colombian.”
