Alvaro Cortes has said goodbye to Barcelona after leaving on transfer deadline day and securing a transfer to Royal Antwerp.
The defender says he has “to say goodbye in a way I didn’t expect and not the way I would have liked” but admits he will never forget his time with the Catalan giants.
“I was born far from Barcelona, but I always felt like a *Culer*. I grew up following this team, celebrating its victories, and dreaming of wearing that jersey one day—until, at just 16 years old, I received the call that changed my life,” he posted on Instagram.
“I left my home and my city behind to fulfill my childhood dream. Since then, I have been truly happy, and I have worn this crest and the captain’s armband with the utmost pride and respect.
“Today, I have to say goodbye in a way I didn’t expect and not the way I would have liked. However, in football—as in life—we cannot always choose how or when chapters come to an end.”
Cortes does go on to say that he gave it his all at Barcelona and also took time out to thank all those who have helped him during his time at Camp Nou.
“I leave with the peace of mind of having given my all, and deeply grateful to FC Barcelona for opening its doors to me, trusting that 16-year-old boy, and allowing me to fulfill the greatest dream of my life. Thank you for all these years of learning, hard work, sacrifice, and moments I will carry with me forever. Here, I have grown as a footballer and, above all, as a person, coming to understand what this crest means and represents,” he added.
“Heartfelt thanks to all the coaches, coordinators, sporting directors, teammates, and everyone else with whom I have shared this journey. Each of you has left a mark and helped shape the person I am today. I also want to thank the fans for all the affection I have received. Defending this badge has been a source of pride and a privilege that is hard to put into words.”
Hansi Flick has spoken about Cortes and his move to Royal Antwerp. He said the defender wouldn’t get the playing time he needs at Barcelona and added “it’s better for him to play at another club and see what happens.”