Aleix Garcia hails 22-year-old Spain star as the player who makes Barcelona ‘flow’ | OneFootball

Despite their financial constraints, FC Barcelona have made some very exciting additions to their team in the last few years. Meanwhile, they have also been linked with some other interesting names, that did not end up joining the Blaugrana team.

One player in this second category was the midfielder Aleix Garcia, who was linked very strongly with the Catalan club when he was still at Girona, more than a year ago. Ultimately, he joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2024.

The midfielder recently appeared in an interview with SPORT in which he talked about the interest from Barcelona and his opinion on some of the current Blaugrana players.

The Spaniard clarified that the interest from the Catalan club was not very serious, even though some meetings did take place:

“There was nothing serious. Yes, there were some talks between my agent and Deco, but I never had any direct conversation with anyone at Barça or any offer on the table. I know there was interest, but given the situation the club was in, I think it was difficult. That’s why I always say that if it didn’t happen, it’s because there wasn’t real interest.”

Garcia went on to explain how things went at that time:

“Well, at that time, I was very happy at Girona. We were having a great season. And yes, obviously Barça is one of the biggest clubs, if not the biggest. It’s always nice to hear they’re interested in you, but in the end, I stayed at Girona and we had a historic season.”

The midfielder also commented on how Hansi Flick’s arrival has changed things for the better at Barcelona:

“Since Flick arrived, Barça has a very clear idea that’s giving results: high pressing, intensity without the ball, rhythm, and compact lines. I see them at a very high level.”

Photo Courtesy: The official website of FC Barcelona

Yet the moment that stood out most was his glowing praise for Pedri, the 22-year-old midfield maestro he considers Barça’s heartbeat:

“For me, Pedri is the key: he gives meaning to the game, speeds it up or slows it down when needed, and makes his teammates better. He’s at an incredible level and makes Barça flow. Then, the tactical work of the coaching staff enhances that, but Pedri makes the difference.”

The Leverkusen man also had warm words for teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, admiring his maturity beyond his years:

“Beyond his qualities, I’m impressed by how he handles the pressure. He’s under a magnifying glass, but when he steps on the pitch, he forgets everything and performs. I enjoy him in the national team: he’s extraordinary. He has to be taken care of and handled with patience, but every match he shows he can be demanded from because he’s that good.”

Although Garcia never joined Barcelona, his words reflect the deep respect he has for the club and its star players, with Pedri standing out as the one who gives the team its rhythm and makes everything flow.