Miralem Pjanic will leave Barcelona and join Sharjah FC in the UAE. The decision of the midfielder has now been confirmed by first team manager Xavi Hernandez.

The Bosnian will be signing a three-year contract with the UAE Pro League, but it remains uncertain whether he will leave on a free transfer. He still has two years remaining on his contract with Barcelona, and could yet depart for a minimal fee.

Miralem Pjanic to join Sharjah FC – decision confirmed by Xavi

Miralem Pjanić, out of Barça squad as he’s set to complete his move to Sharjah FC as revealed yesterday. 🔴🇦🇪 #FCB

Xavi: “Pjanić has decided to leave for more opportunities — he has been a great professional, so I think he had chances here but everyone chooses their own path”. pic.twitter.com/MlmU54R8qA
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 6, 2022

“Pjanić has decided to leave for more opportunities — he has been a great professional, so I think he had chances here but everyone chooses their own path”, Xavi said in a press conference.

The 108-cap Bosnian joined Barcelona in 2020, in a deal that involved Arthur Melo moving to Juventus as part of a swap deal. But neither Miralem Pjanic, nor Arthur has had a favourable time at their clubs following the move.

With the likes of Pedri, Gavi, Sergio Busquets, Franck Kessie and Frenkie de Jong present in Barcelona’s midfield, it will be very difficult for Pjanic to get minutes. He still has a few years left in him at 32, and will be able to enjoy regular first team football in the Middle East following his transfer.