Sergio Busquets confirms he will leave Barcelona at the end of the season

Former Spain international and Barcelona captain, Sergio Busquets has confirmed he will leave Barcelona after 18 seasons at the club.

Busquets joined the Club in 2005 as a youth player and after two seasons with the U19A side, he moved up to a Barça B side coached by Pep Guardiola, helping them to promotion to the Second Division B.

Over the years since his promotion to the first team, he has played 718 matches for Barcelona – the third-most in the club’s history –  and has earned himself several honours, including 8 La Liga titles, 7 Copa del Reys, 7 Spanish Super Cups and 3 Champions Leagues.

The midfielder announced his decision on Wednesday via social media in an emotional video in which he says,

“Although it has not been an easy decision, I think the time has come,” Busquets said.

“It has been an unforgettable journey,” he added. “I always dreamed of playing with this shirt and at this stadium. Reality has exceeded all my dreams.

“It has been an honour, a dream, a source of pride, and it meant everything to defend and represent this badge for so many years.”

“But everything has a beginning and an end. I want to thank all the people who made this possible, from the first day to the last.”

The veteran midfielder is on course to end his Barcelona career with a ninth league title, with Xavi’s side currently 13 points clear at the top of La Liga with five games remaining.

In his 15 years with the senior team he has scored 18 goals and provided 40 assists.

According to reports, Busquets would have decided sooner whether or not to extend his contract beyond this season, but he hoped Barcelona could sign Messi so he could extend his contract to play alongside him for another year.