News

Newcastle target Ousmane Dembele fined already by Xavi

Add as preferred source on Google

Reported Newcastle United target Ousmane Dembele has become the first player to get fined by new Barcelona manager Xavi.

The legendary former midfielder is looking to shake things up at the Nou Camp, and get his dressing room in order.

FC Barcelona  v Juventus - Joan Gamper Trophy
Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Xavi has imposed a number of new rules at the club.

He is looking to raise standards, and improve focus.

Xavi’s new rules supposedly stopped Gerard Pique from appearing on a popular TV show.

And Dembele has become the first player at the club to get fined.

He turned up three minutes late to training according to Marca.

Al-Sadd Sports Club v Esperance Sportive de Tunis - FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019
Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Marca note that this was not the first time for Dembele. Supposedly, the player has been late ‘on plenty of occasions in the past’.

The story comes amid apparent transfer interest from Newcastle in Dembele.

Foot Mercato claimed last month that the Magpies had opened talks to sign the star.

Goal also said that Dembele would be open to a move to St. James’ Park.

More reason for Newcastle to avoid Dembele

It seems Dembele has a time-keeping problem.

The fact he has already been fined for being late is pretty poor, considering Xavi has already sung the Frenchman’s praises.

As brilliant as he is on the pitch, there just seems to be a lot of baggage with Dembele.

FC Barcelona v Granada CF - La Liga Santander
Photo by Pedro Salado/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

His injury record, of course, is particularly concerning.

Hopefully, Newcastle steer clear of the player. For the Magpies, it is about getting players who are fully focused and committed, even right down to the little things.