The Catalan team is gearing up for a crucial Champions League Round of 16 clash against Portuguese side Benfica, with the first leg set to take place tonight in Lisbon.
German coach Hansi Flick aims to secure a favorable result that will give his team an advantage ahead of next week’s return match at Montjuïc Stadium in Catalonia.
Meanwhile, a former Barcelona star has admitted regret over his decision to leave the club in 2021. Ilaix Moriba, now playing for Celta Vigo, acknowledged that departing Barcelona was a major mistake.
Moriba stated: “Leaving Barcelona was an error. I was very young and felt immense pressure, but I want to apologize to the fans and club president Joan Laporta. My dream is to return one day.”
He continued: “At one point, I felt everything was falling apart, but now I’m happy at Celta Vigo and eager to prove that I still possess the talent people recognized in me.”
Former Barcelona sporting director Ramón Planes also weighed in on Moriba’s departure, describing it as a lesson for young academy players. He recalled how former coach Ronald Koeman personally urged Moriba to renew his contract, assuring him of a key role in the team. However, Moriba ultimately chose to leave—a decision he now regrets.
