Dani Alves: why will he not play until January after returning to Barcelona?

Barcelona have confirmed the return of Dani Alves to the club until the end of the season but will not play until the end of the season though the club have given no reason for the decision. Full details are awaited during his unveiling.

Alves, 38, returned to the club after his former teammate Xavi Hernandez returned as manager. It was reported that Xavi sanctioned the move for the Brazilian to return and opted to play for almost free so he could help the club.

Reports circulating in the Spanish media suggest that Alves will receive just €1 as salary as it is impossible to play for free in the actual sense of it. So he has to be given a salary no matter how small or insignificant it is.

His return could spell trouble or be a big boost for American defender Sergino Dest. It could displace him totally in the team or it could be a source of inspiration working with an experienced defender in Alves.