The sports director for professional football, Andoni Zubizarreta, has spoken about the versatility of FC Barcelona’s latest signing, Alexis Sánchez, who he believes can play in several positions.
In his first press conference as an FC Barcelona player, Alexis Sánchez was joined by Josep Maria
Bartomeu, the director responsible for the football area, and by Andoni Zubizarreta. Both of these
gentlemen played an active role in signing the Chilean, and spoke about what a useful acquisition
he is likely to be.
26 million plus 11.5 in variable bonuses
The man charged with introducing Alexis Sánchez to the media was Josep Maria
Bartomeu. In front of a packed Sala París, Bartomeu said that Alexis “was an express request
from the technical secretary” and commented that the agreement settled on a fixed transfer
fee of “26 million plus 11.5 in variable bonuses”. He also explained that the Chilean
“turned down better financial offers” and therefore “collaborated in being able
to come to Barça”.
More attacking options
Andoni Zubizarreta described the club’s latest signing as “versatile
and able to play in several positions … he will give us an extra edge and some
aggression” as well as “offering us more options in attack”. Zubi also believes
that “Alexis brings things to the squad that we don’t have right now”.
Udinese, future Gamper opposition
During the presentation he also said that part of deal with Udinese to bring Alexis
Sánchez to Catalonia involves the participation of the Italian outfit in at least one edition of
the Joan Gamper Trophy over the next three years, as well as one friendly match between the two
clubs.