Former Espanyol president lambasts Joan Garcia for joining Barcelona – ‘Everyone felt betrayed’ | OneFootball

Barcelona have recently announced their first signing for next season in the form of Joan Garcia.

The talented Spanish goalkeeper joins from Espanyol, a local rival. The move has caused quite a stir in Catalonia, with Garcia facing fierce backlash from Espanyol supporters.

The backlash has not only been limited to fans, either, as even former Espanyol president Joan Collet has also joined the bandwagon.

Joan Collet’s fierce criticism of Joan Garcia

Collet is absolutely livid with the fact that Joan Garcia has joined Barcelona, and he didn’t hide his feelings either.

In a recent interaction with RAC 1 (h/t SPORT), Collet blamed the Barcelona goalkeeper for breaking the trust of his teammates and colleagues.

“I’m disappointed, not angry. It really p***es me off that he went to a rival who, unfortunately, isn’t a sporting rival, but a social one,” Collet said.

“His approach wasn’t right; he deceived his teammates, the coach, and the fans. Everyone felt betrayed,” he added.

Collet even added that it will be difficult for him to forgive Garcia, before going on to blame the goalkeeper again for breaking Espanyol fans’ trust.

Former Espanyol president believes Joan Garcia has betrayed the club (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The former Espanyol president believes Joan Garcia had other opportunities, in the sense that he could have joined other clubs.

“Espanyol didn’t want to sell him where he went; they bought his sporting freedom. The serious thing is that he’s a youth player. It’s hard to forgive, as he’s gone to the side of the monster,” he said.

Collet added that there is no need for Garcia’s end to give a farewell to Espanyol, stating, “He paid the clause, so there’s no need for a statement. I don’t want it. Close the door when you leave.”

Finally, the former Espanyol president hopes that Joan Garcia will not be well-received when he returns to RCDE Stadium next season.

“I want there to be whistles, but without violence or insults. I would make a giant banner with a photo of Joan Garcia dressed as Espanyol and kissing the crest,” he concluded.