Barcelona’s turbulent season was only missing an episode of rebellion. It was staged by the promising youth player Dame Sarr, who will not be in Sunday’s Clasico after having gone to the United States without the club’s permission to play in the prestigious Nike Hoops Summit between April 6 and 12.

The Blaugrana club informed on Saturday of this incident involving the 18-year-old Italian. “During the month of November, the player requested permission to be absent and play this friendly match. At that time, the club was open to listening to the request. This request was denied and this has been communicated to the player and his representatives in the last two weeks, given that Dame Sarr has become an important player for the team,” Barca said in a statement.

Sarr’s growth has been very remarkable in recent weeks, performing well even in the EuroLeague, such as in the defeat against Armani Milan, in which he beat his records in the competition both in points, with 13, and in efficiency, with 16.

Breach of obligations

“Despite the club’s express refusal, the player has unilaterally decided to disobey this decision,” the club continued, “communicating on Friday night that he will travel on his own to participate in the event. This attitude represents a direct breach of his obligations as a FC Barcelona player.” The Catalan club highlights the investment made in the youngster and now reserves “the right to defend its interests by any means it deems appropriate.”

Sarr’s future already pointed far from Barcelona next season. The NCAA seemed his most likely destination, as he has been linked with the University of Illinois. However, in recent days the option of him entering the next NBA draft had grown. In fact, showing himself at theNike Hoops Summit, among some of the best young players in the world, could be part of that plan.