Former La Masia talent reflects on decision to leave Barcelona – ‘Football does not end outside Barça’ | OneFootball

Real Betis midfielder Sergi Altimira began his football journey at Barcelona’s youth academy in 2012.

He spent seven formative years at La Masia, learning under some of the best coaches and developing both as a player and as a person.

In 2019, however, he decided to leave after realising that the chances of promotion to the first team were limited.

During an interview with MundoBetis, Altimira reflected on his time at Barcelona.

“I think I wouldn’t be the player I am today without having been there.

“I was there for seven years, I learned a lot, as you’re with the best coaches.

“In the end, the values they instil in you as a child make you grow as a player and as a person, which is very important,” he said.

Life after Barcelona

After leaving Barcelona, Altimira joined Sabadell, who then loaned him to Granollers for a season. He explained his decision to move by stating,

Sergi Altimira left Barcelona in 2019. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

“I ended my time at Barça in my second year as a youth player. I had a physical handicap; I grew very late. Some teammates were much stronger and faster.

“So it was time for a change of scenery, to prove my worth at another team, and I saw that outside of Barça, neither the world nor football ends.

“I’ve been growing and maturing as a player… but it’s not easy to say goodbye after seven years.

“I think I took it in the best possible way, and luckily I’m now playing in the First Division.”

Altimira arrived at Real Betis quietly in the summer of 2023, guided by Ramon Planes, who knew him from his Barcelona days.

This summer, the club received offers exceeding €20 million for him until the final day of the transfer window, but Altimira remained at the club, proving his commitment and importance to the team.