Joan Garcia bids farewell to Espanyol fans amidst Barca switch backlash

Joan Garcia confirmed on Wednesday that he is leaving Espanyol. The 24-year-old goalkeeper said goodbye to his fans in a video on social media, which was published minutes before the club announced the payment of the termination clause. Barcelona then made his signing official.

"The time has come for us to part ways. Today I have to say goodbye to the club that has been my home since I was 15 years old", began the message from the goalkeeper, who was grateful: "During all this time I have tried to grow every day as a footballer and as a person, always with humility, effort, and the pride of defending the RCD Espanyol goal".

A large part of his message was aimed at defending his move to Barcelona: "I know that this decision will not be easy for everyone to understand. I'm not asking you to do so. But I do want you to know that it has been a very well thought-out decision, thinking not only about my career but also about what is best for the club, for my family and for me".

"It is not just any goodbye, it is a stage that is closing with the conviction that everything I have experienced has made me better. Thanks from the bottom of my heart to all the coaches, teammates, staff and all the people who are part of the day-to-day life of the club".

"Above all, thanks to the fans. From the first day I felt your affection and in the hardest moments your support was what pushed me to keep going. You have made me feel part of something very big. I leave with a heart full of gratitude".

"I have defended these colours with everything, and that will always be my pride. Now a new challenge begins. I face it with excitement, but also with the utmost respect for everything I leave behind. Thank you for everything, Pericos. Farewell", he concluded.