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 time.
The previous winger, who spent over a decade on the Camp Nou and gained 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 robust different.
Talking after a go to to the MD Campus, the place he took half in coaching periods with younger gamers and provided steering based mostly on his personal experiences, Carrasco mirrored on Barcelona’s switch window and the missed alternative to usher in Williams.
He described the Spain worldwide as a “visible attraction” for younger followers, likening his recognition to that of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
“I stroll down the road and see Barca shirts with Lamine’s identify on the again all over the place, even in Madrid,” Carrasco mentioned.
Carrasco was notably disillusioned that the transfer for Williams fell by means of, revealing that he shared supervisor Hansi Flick’s view that the winger was a really perfect goal.
He advised the breakdown in negotiations was resulting from issues with brokers and contractual clauses somewhat than a scarcity of effort from the membership.
“The negotiation wasn’t profitable. Generally there are free 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 method 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 strain on Yamal, who’s at present 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’ model 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 unlock Lamine,” Carrasco defined.
Regardless of his desire for Williams, Carrasco additionally praised Luis Diaz as a high quality participant who may nonetheless add vital worth to the squad.
Nonetheless, he acknowledged that the Colombian would possible come at a better price. “He’s a beautiful participant, too,” Carrasco mentioned. “However I’d have most popular 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 potential to adapt to the calls for of enjoying as a disciplined left winger in Barca’s system.
“He’s extra of a problem,” Carrasco mentioned. “I don’t see him as ready to carry out in that place as Luis Diaz. I’ve no doubts in regards to the Colombian.”
