Sergio Busquets to leave Barcelona after nearly two decades at La Liga giants

Busquets, whose contract expires at the end of the ongoing season in June, announced his decision with a video released on social media.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision but the time has come,” the 34-year-old Busquets said. “It has been an honor, a dream and a reason for pride to have been able to wear this badge.”

Busquets arrived at Barcelona in 2005 and made it to a “B” team coached by Pep Guardiola after two seasons with the under-19s. He helped the “B” team gain promotion and eventually made his first-team debut in 2008.

The 34-year-old has played 718 matches for Barcelona, putting him third all-time behind Xavi and record-holder Lionel Messi. Busquets has won 31 titles with the Catalan club, including three Champions Leagues and eight Spanish leagues.

Busquets is about to finish his career with another La Liga title as Barcelona holds a 13-point advantage at the top with five games remaining.

One of the best defensive midfielders Barcelona has had, Busquets has scored 18 goals and had 40 assists. He has been team captain for the last two seasons.

He was among the veterans who chose to accept a cut in their salaries during the club’s recent financial struggles. Busquets is the player with the most appearances in “clasicos” between Barcelona and Real Madrid, on 48.

In the video posted on social media, Busquets spoke of his journey at the club as he informed fans that this will be his last season at Barcelona.

“It has been an unforgettable journey. Since I was a child coming to the matches or watching them on TV, I always dreamed of playing with this shirt and at this stadium, and reality has exceeded all my dreams,” Busquets said.

“I wouldn’t have believed you if you had told me when I arrived as a youth player that I would play 15 seasons at the best club in the world, the club of my life.”

???? A Barça legend says goodbye. #5ergioUnic pic.twitter.com/SWlDN2GtA2

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 10, 2023