“I owe everything to Barcelona” – Former La Masia forward opens up before emotional reunion | OneFootball

Former Barcelona youth forward Ferran Jutgla is preparing for what promises to be an emotional and nostalgic weekend. 

Now playing for Rayo Vallecano, the 26-year-old will come up against his boyhood club when his side faces Barcelona in La Liga, a fixture that holds special meaning for a player who once wore the Blaugrana shirt with pride.

Speaking on Tot Costa on Catalunya Radio, Jutgla admitted that this week has been one of mixed emotions, especially with another clash involving one of his former teams on the horizon – Club Brugge vs. Barcelona. 

“When I hear about this game, I get really excited for Bruges, because they are Barça fans there. During the years I was there, I always wanted to play against them,” he confessed. 

“It will be a very difficult atmosphere for Barça, because they press hard and play with a lot of intensity. Barça will have to give their best to win.”

Warning to Barcelona

The Spaniard warned his former teammates about the challenges awaiting Barcelona at the Jan Breydel Stadium. 

“It will be difficult for two reasons: the atmosphere and the football. Playing there is not easy, but Bruges have quality and will compete for the game,” he observed.

Although he would have relished playing in such a fixture during his time at Brugge, Jutgla now has his focus set firmly on the weekend. 

“I would have loved to play this game when I was there, but that’s football. We’re playing Barça this week, and it will also be a special game for me. 

“I’m really looking forward to playing against them and beating them,” he said with a smile.

Growth after leaving Barcelona

Reflecting on his journey, Jutgla acknowledged how much he has grown since leaving Barcelona. 

“I left when I was 22 and I’ve matured a lot, especially as a person. My mindset and mentality have evolved.

Ferran Jutgla will not celebrate if he scores against Barcelona. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

“Leaving home and being in uncomfortable environments makes you grow. I’m a much more mature person,” he shared.

When asked about Barcelona’s current forward line, the forward revealed which player he relates to most. 

“Yes, with Ferran. I think he’s a role model for many players, because of his mentality, because he’s overcome difficult situations when everyone was criticising him or laughing at him. 

“He’s performed at a very high level and I pay a lot of attention to him. I’ve told him that. He’s an example for many,” Jutgla said.

Can he fit in today’s Barcelona?

The forward was also realistic when asked if he could have fit into today’s Barcelona setup. 

“Yes, sometimes you think about it, but that’s just speculation. I’m happy with the decision I made. Thinking about what might have happened is pointless,” he said with honesty.

Looking ahead to the weekend clash, Jutgla expressed his faith in his teammates. “I have a lot of confidence in my team and the staff. 

“We’ll approach the game in the best way possible and use our weapons to get the three points. We want to continue climbing the table,” he said confidently.

Will he celebrate against Barcelona?

Finally, when asked whether he would celebrate if he scores against his former club, Jutgla was clear. 

“Goals are a cause for celebration, but I have enormous respect for Barça, because it was the club that made me famous. I’ve never been in this situation before, but I don’t think I would celebrate,” he admitted.

He further explained his reasoning, showing deep gratitude. “When you score, you get an adrenaline rush. 

“But I’m very grateful to the clubs that have nurtured me and given me opportunities. Barça is one of them, and I wouldn’t celebrate out of respect,” he concluded.