Barcelona third captain, Sergio Busquets said everyone at the club is surprised about Arthur Melo not returning to honour his obligations.
Arthur signed for Juventus in a deal worth 72 million euros with additional 10 million euros as add-on in June. The midfielder signed a swap deal which will see Juventus Miralem Pjanic head the opposite direction.
However, both players are expected to continue playing for their current clubs until end of season including in the Champions League this August before linking up with their new team ahead of next season but Arthur has refused to present himself to Barcelona.
The former Gremio star missed the later games of La Liga and is yet play any match since his transfer was announced. He has also not been seen in training which leaves a huge shock on players and staffs at Camp Nou.
Busquets said that: “It was a surprise to everyone that Arthur did not return. Arthur’s situation has been difficult, but the only ones who know the situation are the player and the club.
“We know some of the news from what comes out, that he left and will now return, but we are on the sidelines and we hope they reach an agreement that will be the best for all. We will only focus on the game against Napoli.”
Head coach Quique Setien who seem less worried about the midfielder said he only receives updates on him from the club, saying: “I spoke with him before he left, the reality is that from then on I have not spoken to him again, what I have learned has been through the club. I would have liked it to be different, but I can’t say anything else.”
Barcelona will host Napoli on Saturday in second-leg tie of Champions League round of 16 but Busquets, who will be unavailable due to maximum yellow card obtained during the 1-1 at Naples says the team has addressed the flaws which saw them missed out in claiming La Liga and are now ready for the Champions League on a different level.
Busquets said: “Everything that is discussed in the dressing room to improve is welcome. These weeks have been very good for us to train, to better plan the game tactically.
“We really want to be able to continue in this competition and be in the final eight, but first we have Napoli, who have a great coach and he’s not going to make it easy for us.”
