In a move that will surprise few, FC Schalke have announced the loan signing of Barcelona's Dutch midfielder Ibrahim Afellay. The 26 year-old has long been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou, and after passing a medical with the club earlier today, Afellay has expressed his delight at the move which sees him link-up with Huub Stevens, whom he worked under at PSV Eindhoven. So far there is no official word on whether or not Schalke have an option to make the loan move permanent at the end of the season.
Afellay joined FC Barcelona back in January 2010 and went on to make 34 appearances in his time with the club, scoring two goals in the process (once against Almeria in the Copa del Rey, and once in La Liga against Malaga). His time with the club was disrupted by injuries, but hopefully with regular playing time and a fresh start, Ibi can put his troubles behind him and flourish.
We all wish Ibi the best of luck with his new club!