Former Barcelona target reflects on failed move – ‘If it had happened…’ | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Aleix Garcia has revealed that he was once a target for Barcelona during Xavi Hernandez’s managerial stint.

Garcia, known for his impressive displays last season at Girona, caught the attention of several top European clubs, including Barcelona.

The 27-year-old had always been open about his dream of joining Barcelona. However, the departure of Xavi as the Blaugrana manager ultimately derailed any concrete plans for the transfer.

With the move falling through, Garcia instead chose to continue his career in Germany, joining Bayer Leverkusen, a club with significant ambitions in European football.

Barcelona contacted him

While speaking to Diari ARA (h/t SPORT), he confirmed that there had been discussions between his camp and Barcelona. Although nothing materialised, the idea of wearing the Barcelona jersey still holds a special place in his heart.

In fact, he also admitted that if Barcelona ever knock on his doors, he “would be delighted” to sign for them.

“My agent received calls from Barça, yes. It has been said that I was Xavi’s option; The fact that he didn’t continue perhaps made them think about it.”

Despite this, Garcia is now fully committed to his current club, Leverkusen, and views them as a major force in Europe.

Barcelona wanted to sign Aleix Garcia. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

“If it had happened, fine. But now I’m also at a big club. I’m going to the death with Leverkusen,” he said.

Supporting Barcelona

Reflecting on his earlier comments about wanting to play for Barcelona, Garcia faced some criticism, especially from Girona fans. This occurred when he expressed his admiration for Barcelona shortly before a crucial Girona-Barcelona derby.

“I have never hidden. It’s true that maybe I said it at a time when I wasn’t playing, but I was going to the death with Girona.”

However, the midfielder clarified his stance, explaining that his comments were not intended to undermine Girona but rather reflected his lifelong connection to Barcelona as a Catalan footballer.

“If Barça played against Sevilla, I preferred Barça to win. In the same way that now between Barça and Girona, I prefer Girona to win. That controversy was an anecdote, I don’t think he said anything so serious,” he admitted.

While Garcia is thriving in Germany, he remains open to the possibility of joining Barcelona in the future. For now, though, his focus is on his current challenges, proving himself on the biggest stages with Bayer Leverkusen.