Barcelona is one of the most successful football clubs in the world, with a rich history of talented players who have graced their iconic blue and red jersey. However, the year 2013 saw a significant shake-up in the Barcelona squad, as several key players left the club. Let’s take a closer look at who left Barcelona in 2013.
Victor Valdes
Victor Valdes was a long-time goalkeeper for Barcelona, having come up through their youth academy and played for the senior team since 2002. He was an integral part of many successful Barcelona teams, winning six La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies.
However, in early 2013, Valdes announced that he would not be renewing his contract with the club and would be leaving at the end of the season. He eventually signed with French side Monaco.
Eric Abidal
Eric Abidal joined Barcelona in 2007 and quickly established himself as one of the best defenders in Europe. He won numerous titles with the club, including four La Liga championships and two Champions League trophies.
However, in March 2011, Abidal was diagnosed with liver cancer and had to undergo surgery to have part of his liver removed. He miraculously returned to play for Barcelona just two months later and continued to play for them until 2013 when he left for Monaco.
David Villa
David Villa was one of the most prolific strikers in Europe when he joined Barcelona from Valencia in 2010. He scored over 20 goals in each of his first two seasons with the club but struggled with injuries during his third season. In 2013, he announced that he would be leaving Barcelona to join fellow Spanish side Atletico Madrid.
Thiago Alcantara
Thiago Alcantara was a highly rated midfielder who came up through Barcelona’s youth academy. He made his senior debut in 2009 and quickly established himself as a key player for the club.
He won numerous titles with Barcelona, including two La Liga championships and a Champions League trophy. However, in 2013, he announced that he would be leaving the club to join German giants Bayern Munich.
Cesc Fabregas
Cesc Fabregas was a fan favorite at Barcelona, having come up through their youth academy and played for the senior team from 2003-2011. He then spent three seasons at Arsenal before returning to Barcelona in 2011.
He won several titles with the club but found himself struggling for playing time during his final season there. In 2014, he left Barcelona to rejoin Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the year 2013 saw several high-profile departures from Barcelona, including Victor Valdes, Eric Abidal, David Villa, Thiago Alcantara, and Cesc Fabregas. While it was undoubtedly a difficult period for the club and its fans, they have since bounced back and continued to be one of the top teams in Europe.