Bardghji, 20, was born in Kuwait and joined Barcelona from FC Copenhagen for approximately €2m in the summer of 2025, signing a contract through to June 2029.
He was included in the Sweden squad that secured World Cup qualification by beating Poland in March, but was absent from coach Graham Potter's final 26-man list for the tournament. Aftonbladet reported that his exclusion was linked to an incident during the post-match celebration dinner, claiming he had been visibly upset about his lack of playing time and that his demeanour had surprised teammates.
Bardghji broke his silence in an interview with Swedish newspaper Expressen, choosing to speak out rather than allow the version circulating in Sweden to go unchallenged.
"I understood I had to speak because the rumours spread in that article had no basis whatsoever. I was very happy and proud that we qualified for the World Cup, even though I didn't participate on the pitch. I still feel I am part of the team. All those rumours that have been said about me are nonsense."
He was direct about the specific claim that he had been sulking at the dinner.
"Contrary to what was said, I enjoyed the dinner after the match very much. We celebrated with my teammates, just as I did after winning the league with Barcelona last week."
Potter also distanced himself from the Aftonbladet account, saying he had seen nothing unusual that evening.
"I didn't see anything strange that night. I don't know anything about what came out in the press. That night I was busy celebrating the qualification, so I don't know what everyone was doing."
On the sporting rationale for leaving Bardghji out, Potter was measured.
"There are other players who are currently ahead of him at a competitive level."
Bardghji contributed two goals and four assists across 28 appearances in his debut season at the club, operating primarily in the shadow of Lamine Yamal on the right side. He has told those close to him he is planning to speak with coach Hansi Flick at the end of the season about his role and his need for more regular minutes.
Barcelona's leadership, including sporting director Deco, are understood to have no intention of selling him but would consider a loan if a suitable arrangement could be found.