Barcelona midfielder, Sergio Busquets, announced on Wednesday that he will be leaving the club at the end of his contract in June, concluding a remarkable era with the team. The 34-year-old shared the news on his Instagram account, expressing his gratitude for the unforgettable journey he has had with the club.
Having won the Champions League three times with Barcelona and La Liga eight times before this season, Busquets has been a crucial player for the team since his debut under former coach Pep Guardiola in 2008. He also became the captain of the club in 2021.
With a total of 718 appearances for Barcelona, Busquets is the team’s third-highest appearance maker of all time and has lifted 31 trophies throughout his career. Although he did not reveal his next destination, Spanish reports suggest that he may join a team in Saudi Arabia.
In his statement, Busquets expressed his gratitude to the club and fans for their support throughout the years. He stated, “It has been an honour, a dream, a pride. It has been everything to be able to defend and represent this badge for so many years, but everything has a beginning and an end. Although it has not been an easy decision, I think the time has come.”
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez expressed his desire for Busquets to stay with the team next season, but respected the midfielder’s decision. Busquets’ teammates, both past and present, also paid tribute to him on social media after his announcement.
Barcelona defender Jordi Alba wrote on Instagram, “You’re leaving your home, having made an indelible imprint on Barcelona’s history. More than 700 games and a fundamental part of so many titles, and glorious nights that all Barca fans will forever remember.” Former Barcelona playmaker Andres Iniesta also praised Busquets, describing him as “number one.”
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