‘It would be hard to say no‘ — Mallorca winger leaves door open for potential Barcelona return | OneFootball

Jan Virgili continues to establish himself as one of the most exciting young wingers in La Liga this season, making a strong impression with RCD Mallorca following his departure from FC Barcelona.

The 19-year-old Spanish winger, who emerged from Nàstic de Tarragona before joining Barça’s Juvenil A setup in 2024, enjoyed a historic spell at La Masia, winning the Cup, League, and Youth Champions League.

However, last summer proved decisive in shaping his career path. A lack of inclusion in Hansi Flick’s preseason plans, particularly the U.S. tour, combined with a direct push from then Mallorca coach Jagoba Arrasate, led to his €3.5 million move to Los Piratas.

Virgili has since adapted seamlessly to top-flight football, with his dribbling, boldness, and willingness to take on defenders quickly catching the eye. Speaking recently to SPORT while reflecting on his first full professional season, he opened up on both his rapid rise and the key decisions that took him away from Barcelona.

“It was incredible, a dream for me. That great season with Juvenil A—winning the Cup, League, and Champions—and then playing with the reserve team was unforgettable.”

Despite that success, Jan Virgili admitted he had hoped to take the next step into the first team setup at Camp Nou:

Another crucial factor behind his departure was the relegation of Barça Atlètic, which significantly altered his development pathway:

“Barça Atlètic got relegated, and although staying at Barça is a privilege, remaining with the reserves—especially after relegation—felt like a chance I couldn’t miss. I always say you have to follow your path, even if it takes you away from where you originally wanted to be.”

The interview also arrives amid growing external noise regarding a potential return to Barcelona, with the club’s sporting department believed to be monitoring his progress. Virgili himself did little to shut down that possibility:

“Well, if Barça called me, it would be hard to say no.”

With Raphinha and Lamine Yamal currently leading the wings under Flick at Barcelona, competition is fierce. Still, Virgili’s profile, form, and mentality suggest he could yet have unfinished business with the Catalan club.