The pivot position, a major concern for Barça in the 2024-25 season, has now been resolved. Rafael Nogueira da Silva, known as Fits, finalized his release yesterday in Madrid with Movistar Inter representatives. The Brazilian pivot received financial compensation and a free transfer after the Madrid club decided to release him. This was the final formal step for Fits to join Barça in the coming days. The São Paulo striker will sign a three-year contract, pending medical examinations. Jordi Torras, the sports coordinator, had secured approval from the Board of Directors to strengthen the team with a specialist, as requested by the new coach, Tino Pérez.
Fits had been a target for Barça
Fits had been a target for Barça pivots since Ferrao announced his departure to Kazakhstan’s Semey. Although Rocha was the preferred option, financial disagreements led the former Benfica player to Italy (L-84) instead of Latvian Riga, which signed Guilhermao (Nagoya Oceans of Japan). Next on the list was Allan, but Sporting had already secured him. Nobody at Barça expected Movistar Inter to release Fits, presenting an irresistible market opportunity. Tino Pérez was particularly pleased with securing a left-footed pivot to balance the squad, arriving on a free transfer, which was previously unthinkable.
Alex Yepes cleared to play
Additionally, Alex Yepes announced on social media that he had been cleared to play. Replacing the injured Ferrao, he debuted for Barça at 34 against Peñíscola on September 9. However, on October 26, he tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee in his second UEFA Futsal Champions League Main Round match against Anderlecht. Limiting him to 9 games and 3 goals. His dedication off the court earned him a renewal until 2025. Fully integrated into the team, Yepes has become a key voice in the dressing room, working tirelessly over the past nine months to be fit for preseason. “I am very happy and pleased to stay another year with Barça. It hasn’t been an easy few months, but I’m looking forward to playing again and winning titles,” said Yepes, anticipating the first league match against his former team, ElPozo Murcia, on October 12.
Barça has also loaned Kokoro Harada to Osasuna Magna for next season. The Navarrese team sought a left-winger after Eloy de Pablos moved to Movistar Inter, and the 21-year-old Japanese international fit the bill. Harada, the first Japanese player in the First Division with Barça and a participant in the UEFA Futsal Champions League, joins Brazilian Ligeiro and Argentine Russo. Coach Miguel Hernández gains a skillful player with a promising future, though the Navarrese team still needs a closer to complete their squad.