Bayer Leverkusen star praises Barcelona duo, opens up on past transfer links – ‘I know there was interest’ | OneFootball

When Barcelona were looking for a new midfield recruit over a year ago, Aleix Garcia stood out as a great option that the club even made efforts to initiate contact with.

The Spaniard’s form with Girona, after all, made him one of the league’s best in his position and the Catalans saw it as a great opportunity.

Eventually, however, his move to Barcelona never came to fruition, and the saga all ended with him joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2024, and he has been playing in the Bundesliga ever since.

Last season was his first in the new country, and he adapted well, making 17 starts and 28 appearances for the German side, racking up three goals and four assists in that duration.

On links with Barcelona

During a recent interview with SPORT, Garcia was asked about the rumours that linked him to Barcelona and his thoughts on Hansi Flick’s side.

He began by confirming that he never held very serious talks with the Catalans, and negotiations never reached such a stage, and how the club’s economic situation had to do with it.

Garcia was linked with Barcelona in the recent past. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)

“There was nothing serious. Yes, there were some conversations between my agent and Deco, but I didn’t speak with anyone from Barcelona, and no offers were put on the table,” stated Garcia.

“I know there was interest, but I also think that due to the situation the club was going through, it was complicated. That’s why I always say that the deal not happening means there wasn’t real interest.”

The Spanish international then went on to speak on how he was never under pressure to leave and how not joining the La Liga champions did not affect him much.

“At that time, I was very comfortable at Girona. We were having an excellent season. And of course, in the end, Barcelona is one of the big clubs, if not the biggest,” noted Garcia.

“It’s always pleasing to hear that there’s interest in you, but I stayed at Girona, and we achieved a historic season,” he added.

Giving his thoughts on Hansi Flick’s side and how the manager has transformed the team, Garcia said,

“Since Flick’s arrival, Barcelona have a very clear idea that is yielding results for them: high pressing, aggression without the ball, fast pace, and tight lines. I see them at a very high level,” admitted the midfielder.

Praise for Pedri, Lamine

Garcia was full of praise for Pedri and Lamine. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Garcia then proceeded to praise Barcelona midfield maestro Pedri Gonzalez heavily and openly spoke on the Canary Islander’s importance to the setup.

“For me, Pedri is the key: he gives meaning to the game, speeds up or slows down play as needed, and enhances the performance of his teammates,” the Bayer Leverkusen star remarked.

“His level is astonishing and makes Barcelona run smoothly. Additionally, the tactical work of the coaching staff reinforces this, but Pedri makes the difference,” he added.

Speaking on Lamine Yamal’s brilliance at a young age and how he makes the sport look so easy at the highest level, the Bayer Leverkusen player fell short of words.

“Alongside his abilities, what amazes me is how he handles the pressure. He is watched very closely, and when he steps onto the field, he forgets everything and performs at his very best,” Garcia said.

“In the national team, I enjoy watching him: he is amazing. He must be taken care of and handled with care, but every match proves that he can be relied upon because he is a truly excellent player,” he added.

Source: SPORT