Ansu Fati’s spell at AS Monaco has gone from a story of rebirth to a growing concern both in the Principality and in Barcelona. What began as a promising loan has turned into a roller coaster that now threatens to derail midway through the season.

The forward started strong once he completed his tailored physical reintegration plan, designed to prevent relapses after years marked by injuries. Under Adi Hütter, Ansu exploded: six goals in five matches, averaging one every 41 minutes. Star numbers. A sense of revival. A clear horizon.

But everything shifted dramatically when the club dismissed Hütter and handed the project to Belgian coach Sébastien Pocognoli. From that moment, the academy product’s glow dimmed with no clear explanation. With reduced playing time and a far more secondary role, Ansu has yet to score since the coaching change.

Six Matches Without Scoring and Minutes in Freefall

The new system implemented by Pocognoli hasn’t suited Ansu’s strengths. He has lost prominence and, more worryingly, his offensive impact has vanished. In the six matches he has played under the new manager, he hasn’t found the net and has logged just 55 minutes across the last three games.

This lack of continuity has triggered alarm bells at FC Barcelona, who are closely monitoring his progress for one key reason: AS Monaco hold an 11-million-euro purchase option at the end of the season. In the early weeks, it seemed unthinkable that the Principality club would hesitate to activate it. Now, the situation is on hold. His recent performances raise doubts, both sporting and financial.

An Uncertain Scenario for the Player and for Barça

The situation demands patience. Both Barcelona and Ansu must observe the coming weeks before making any definitive decisions. 

If the forward regains importance and returns to his early-season form, staying in Monaco would make sense for all parties. But if the current trend continues, with minimal minutes and no impact, the most likely outcome is a January move—or a return to Barcelona to reassess his future.

Ansu Fati’s case is yet another reminder of how unpredictable the career of an early prodigy can be. From reborn star to unexpected substitute in a matter of weeks. Barça watches, waits and fears that the loan meant to relaunch him may end up raising more questions than answers.