Joan Garcia Delivers Bold Statement on Barcelona Transfer Speculation

Joan García has admitted it will be "challenging" for Espanyol fans to accept his move to Barcelona, a transfer that is nearly finalized following his current club's confirmation of his departure.

García attracted significant interest after delivering two outstanding campaigns with Espanyol, with clubs like Arsenal and Aston Villa reportedly pursuing the 24-year-old goalkeeper. However, Barcelona executives determined they couldn't risk losing his services and positioned themselves at the head of the pursuit.

Espanyol recently announced that García's release clause—an affordable €25 million ($28.8 million)—had been activated with La Liga, and on Wednesday, they issued a statement confirming García's contract termination with the club.

While waiting for official confirmation of his Barcelona transfer, García shared a heartfelt message to say farewell to Espanyol and address the debate surrounding his cross-Catalonia move.

"Today I bid farewell to the club that has been my home since age 15. Throughout this period, I strived to improve daily, both as a footballer and as an individual. Always with humility, dedication and honor while protecting Real Espanyol's goal," he stated.

"I contributed everything possible to assist the team, to represent this badge with complete dedication, and to honor what wearing this jersey represents. I understand this choice won't be simple for everyone.

"I'm not requesting your understanding, but I want you to realize this is a carefully considered decision, one I've made not only for my career advancement, but also for the club's benefit, my family, and myself.

"This isn't a permanent farewell, but rather a chapter that concludes with the belief that all my experiences have improved me."

García is anticipated to become Barcelona's first-choice goalkeeper, creating considerable doubt about Germany international Marc-André ter Stegen's future at the club. The 33-year-old has pledged to remain with the current La Liga titleholders but might be forced to depart as the Catalan club continues managing their unstable financial situation.