Sassuolo coach Roberto De Zerbi insists there was no bitterness in Kevin-Prince Boateng’s transfer to Barcelona last month, and believes the forward fully deserved the move.
Boateng was signed on loan by the La Liga champions in one of the more surprising transfers of the January window.
He was ostensibly brought to the Camp Nou to provide cover for Luis Suarez, but can fill other positions due to his versatility and experience.
His departure was a blow to Italian Serie A club Sassuolo, with Boateng having been a key member of their squad, but De Zerbi felt it was an opportunity that should not be denied to the former Black Stars attacker.
De Zerbi, after their draw with Genoa in the Italian top flight on Sunday, insisted: “The decision [for Boateng to move to Barca]was made by everyone. The club and I agreed and we agreed.
“For him, FC Barcelona is the culmination of a great career, a deserved achievement for everything he has done.
“We already have options that can replace him. We will evaluate different situations.”
Sassuolo have a strong African presence in their squad, as they also boast Ivorian Jeremie Boga, Ghana’s Alfred Duncan, Senegalese forward Khouma Babacar and Moroccan midfielder Mehdi Bourabia.
