It all happened during the final hours of the January transfer market. Shortly before the time ran out on the discussions, Parma manager Roberto D'Aversa told the press that Gervinho was not training with the squad and that he'd be sold. He was headed to Qatar to play for Al-Sadd, a club managed by Xavi. The deadline to complete any transfers was at 10pm Italy time on Friday. Parma submitted the documents in the final minutes and awaited a reply from the Qatar club that arrived today. The documentation for Gervinho's transfer was refused because it exceeded the time limit. Pizzarotti's club is considering a potential appeal.
Xavi spoke on the topic: "I heard from the management that it's difficult to sign the Ivorian attacker to the squad after the window closed yesterday. If it was registered, he'll be here for the next season. He's a great player and we hoped to have him already."
