JAKARTA - Martin Braithwaite got off to a sensational start to the season, scoring twice and providing an assist in Barcelona's opening La Liga game as they beat Real Sociedad 4-2 at Camp Nou.
Braithwaite played in the next two games, when Ronald Koeman was still in charge, until a knee cartilage injury changed his season.
During the four months of absence, there have been significant changes at Barcelona. Xavi Hernandez replaced Koeman as head coach and a front three were recruited in the January transfer window, keeping Braithwaite away from the starting XI.
Since recovering from his injury in January, Braithwaite has played just 24 minutes in two games. While Xavi respects Braithwaite's professionalism, it is clear the 30-year-old was not part of his plans.
In February 2020, Barcelona triggered Braithwaite's release clause of 18 million euros and signed him on a four-and-a-half-year contract.
Barcelona are hoping to make a net profit from the sale of Braithwaite this summer, although the player has not spoken about his future.
With the World Cup in Qatar taking place in November, Braithwaite knows he has to get some playing time somewhere if he is to represent Denmark on football's biggest stage.
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