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Memphis Depay is determined to be a key player for Barcelona for “several more years” despite speculation over his future.
The Netherlands forward was signed by Ronald Koeman on a two-year deal as a free agent last June after his Lyon contract expired.
Depay is Barca’s leading scorer in his first season at Camp Nou with 12 goals in all competitions, but has only started two LaLiga games since the turn of the year, with Xavi bringing Ferran Torres and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to the club in January.
The 28-year-old has been hampered by injuries, but found the back of the net with a clinical finish in a 2-1 win over Real Mallorca on Sunday.
With Ansu Fati back from injury and the Blaugrana expected to strengthen ahead of the 2022-23 campaign, Depay’s future has been called into question, but he is eager to stay put.
The former Manchester United attacker told ESPN: “I came here wanting to play for the team. I want to be important for the team next year and several more years,”
He added: “It’s normal that I have a lot of competition at Barca. I play for the best club in the world.”
Head coach Xavi also suggested Depay has a part to play beyond this season.
“Memphis trains very well and that’s why he plays. We want this type of player, with this attitude,” he said after Sunday’s win.
“Surely I’ve been unfair to him, but if he performs like this he has to play.”
