Espanyol captain speaks out on Joan Garcia’s Barcelona transfer | OneFootball

So far, FC Barcelona have made only one signing this summer, with Joan Garcia arriving from bitter local rivals RCD Espanyol.

The 24-year-old Spanish goalkeeper arrived after his €25 million release clause was activated, signing a six-year contract with the Blaugrana.

The decision was not an easy one for Garcia, given that he came through the ranks at Espanyol and attained cult-hero status after helping them stave off relegation last season.

Naturally, the Espanyol fans were left frustrated and angered over the move, with some even resorting to unsavoury means to express their feelings.

Espanyol captain Javi Puado reacts

Speaking to the media at a special ceremony earlier today, on the account of his new contract signing, RCD Espanyol captain Javi Puado addressed Joan Garcia’s move to Barcelona.

The Barcelona-born forward, whose previous deal was set to expire this year, was asked what he thought of his former teammate’s decision to make a move to their direct rivals.

In response, Puado said (h/t Mundo Deportivo): “In the end, it is his decision and that is where it stays.”

Espanyol captain Javi Puado. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

Pressed further on the matter, Puado remained firm in his response. “Yes, nothing more,” he concluded, showing no intention of expanding on the topic.

Garcia’s words on Espanyol exit

A few weeks back, Garcia spoke to the Barcelona official media in a lengthy interview, during which he touched upon his decision to leave Espanyol.

Explaining the move, he said: “I was very clear that this was the path I had to take. It was a bit complicated, I had mixed feelings, but like I said, I was very convinced and very happy to make this decision.”

“I’m very happy with what I did there and the way I defended the club’s colours. But the time came to take a step forward, and I think that’s what I did,” he further added.

With pre-season set to start on Sunday, Garcia has already started working at Barcelona’s training facilities, aiming to hit the ground running under Hansi Flick.