Fati Unfazed By Expectations Of Barcelona’s Number 10 Jersey
Barcelona wonderkid Ansu Fati says he is unfazed by the expectations that come with inheriting Lionel Messi’s number 10 jersey at the club.
Fati was the surprise beneficiary of the famous number following Messi’s departure for Paris Saint Germain at the start of the season.
The 18-year-old signed a new long-term contract with the Camp Nou outfit on Wednesday following his recent return from injury.
Such is the talent at Fati’s disposal that he has been touted as the next big thing at Barcelona but manager Ronald Koeman has asked fans to tow down their expectations of the Spain international.
Fati has scored 15 goals in 48 games across all competitions for Barcelona since making his debut in August 2019.
The Guinea-Bissau born forward is grateful for the club’s trust in him so far but he maintains taking over from Messi does not come with added pressure.
"My dream has always been to succeed here and continue growing here, luckily I will continue to do so," Fati told reporters on Thursday.
"I'm going to work every day to improve as a person and as a player. I have not done anything yet, I must continue working, mark my path.
"I am very grateful to the club for having trusted me, along with the captains. It could have been worn by another player, but I'm grateful.
"I was ready because they are at Barca and at Barca you must be prepared for everything. Wearing the '10' is not a pressure, it is one more motivation, I will do the best I can."
