Marc Guiu Consulted Ex-Chelsea Full-Back Before Leaving Barcelona

FC Barcelona believed Marc Guiu was the next big La Masia starlet poised to bolster the first team in the coming years. Xavi Hernandez placed significant trust in the 18-year-old, debuting him in the first team last season. Guiu’s debut touch on the pitch as a senior Barcelona player resulted in a goal. Despite remaining in the first-team picture, the presence of Robert Lewandowski limited his playing time.

This summer, Chelsea approached Guiu, triggering his €6m release clause. The teenager accepted the move to Stamford Bridge, with manager Enzo Maresca placing immense trust in him during the pre-season.

Barcelona quickly moved to sign 22-year-old Pau Victor from Girona, who has excelled in pre-season, scoring three goals in two games against Manchester City and Real Madrid.

Although it is disappointing to see a highly-rated La Masia starlet leave, Guiu explained to the Daily Mail (via Mundo Deportivo) that playing in the Premier League was a dream he could not refuse. The young striker revealed he consulted former Chelsea full-back Juliano Belletti, now the manager of FC Barcelona’s U-19 team, before making his decision. Belletti, who played for Chelsea from 2007 to 2010 and for Barça from 2004 to 2007, provided valuable insights.

Since his move to Chelsea, Guiu has made efforts to maintain good relations with Barcelona fans by explaining his decision. His love for the Catalan club remains strong.

Despite Guiu's departure, Pau Victor’s arrival offers hope. The 18-year-old Spaniard aims to impress at Chelsea and potentially return to Barcelona in the future if the opportunity arises.