Dani Alves to quit Barcelona because it was getting 'too easy'

Ahead of his anticipated move to Juventus, Barcelona defender Dani Alves has said that his time with the Catalans was getting ‘too easy’ for him and a move from the club is good as he is seeking new challenges. The 33-year-old had played a very crucial role in yet another successful season at Barcelona with the club winning the Club World Cup, La Liga title and the Copa del Rey.

Dani Alves had been constantly linked with a move to Juventus since the end of the season. Though Juventus is yet to declare it officially, the Brazilian had confirmed the media about a move this summer. He is currently playing for Brazil at the Copa America Centenario in the United States.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport after his team’s 0-0 draw against Ecuador, Alves said that he would certainly not stay at Barcelona and would try his best to bring success the club he would be joining. "What is certain is that I will not stay at Barcelona. In life, we should explore options outside our comfort zone. Barcelona is an amazing club, but things were becoming too easy,” he said.

Dani Alves had chosen not to renew his contract with the Catalans after eight years at the club, winning 23 trophies in 361 appearances. He had one of the best partnerships with Messi and had racked up over 100 assists for the club. The Brazilian was also instrumental in linking up with the Argentine in many matches with many claiming their understanding to be telepathic. The Brazilian had managed to equally impress all managers at Barcelona from Pe Guardiola to Luis Enrique and is often included among the most decorated defenders the game has ever seen.

This announcement is believed to affect Barcelona drastically as they don’t have an efficient replacement for him in their squad. Rumours have been running wild that they would now be looking to sign Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin as he matches the team’s need for pace.

Apart from the Arsenal man, PSG defender Serge Aurier along with other names such as Mattea de Sciglio, Javi Manquillo and Fabian Johnson are also rumoured to be among Barcelona’s favourite targets for the summer transfer window. Reports have also suggested that they might even bring back Aleix Vidal to the position in a bid to offer the player another chance to prove himself.