Daniel Alves may return to Barcelona, where he played eight successful seasons. The 38-year-old Brazilian right-back has, according to UOL Esporte a meeting with the Catalan club management this week to discuss a return to the Camp Nou. According to reports, both parties are sympathetic to a new partnership, but contract details are yet to be discussed. The veteran has been on a free transfer since his departure from Sao Paulo in September.
Alves left Sao Paulo over a salary dispute and went on to say he would not commit to any club until the end of the year, but the Brazilian is happy to make an exception for Barcelona. The new trainer Xavi, with whom Alves played together at Barça from 2008 to 2016, opens the door wide for the Brazilian. When both sides come to an agreement on the salary and contract duration, nothing seems to stand in the way of Alves’ return to the Camp Nou. According to various media, he has a role as a mentor for the young defenders in the selection of Xavi.
In October, Alves made another open application for a return to Barcelona. “It would sound very opportunistic to say that Barca need me now,” the veteran defender, who left the Camp Nou in 2016, told Sport. “I said that whenever Barcelona needed me and wanted me, I would always be open to a return no matter where I am. The sympathy, love and respect I have for this club is indescribable. If Barça think they need me, they should call me. I still think I can contribute at many clubs, but more at Barca because of the number of young players they have now.”
After his departure from Catalonia, Alves had successful periods at Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain. The departure from Sao Paulo came shortly after the Brazilian won the 43rd title in his career at the Tokyo Olympics. However, Alves does not think about stopping. “I’m always looking for a club that allows me to compete with the greats, fight for titles and be decisive wherever I am. I am not considering other options,” he says. “That’s why I chose Sevilla, Barcelona and all the places I’ve been. I want to bring a winning, fighting and conscious mentality wherever I play.”