Transfer to FC Barcelona failed: Tagliafico steps up against Ajax
Nicolas Tagliafico Ajax 2021-22
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Nicolas Tagliafico wanted to join Barca from Ajax. His club’s veto annoys the Argentine very much.
Ajax Amsterdam’s Nicolas Tagliafico has criticized his current employer after his failed transfer to FC Barcelona. “It was a fantastic opportunity, but the club didn’t help me despite everything. I feel like my professionalism has damaged me,” wrote the 29-year-old Argentine on Twitter.
Left-back Tagliafico, last summer’s Copa America winner with the Albiceleste, has only featured in ten league games this season. Ajax coach Erik ten Haag relies on Danny Blind in his position. So it’s no wonder that Tagliafico was looking to switch clubs in the last transfer window.
FC Barcelona: Tagliafico intended as Alba replacement
Tagliafico could have hoped for more appearances at the Blaugrana. Jordi Alba is pretty much the only left-back in the squad. The failed transfer is particularly bitter for Tagliafico, as he was the Catalans’ preferred candidate for the role of back-up Albas.
Sports director Marc Overmars explained in the club’s own media why Ajax did not let the 34-time Argentinian international move to FC Barcelona: “I wish Nico everything, but we also have to be careful not to shoot ourselves in the foot. Of course it’s a shame for him because Barcelona still have a fantastic name. It’s not good for him now that he’s playing less for us but a transfer wasn’t expected.”
Tagliafico is under contract with the traditional Dutch club until 2023. If his playing times don’t increase as the season progresses, Barcelona could possibly make another attempt to get him this summer.