Ilaix Moriba’s Redemption Journey: From Barcelona ‘Errors’ to Getafe Resurgence

In a press conference on Thursday, Getafe midfielder Ilaix Moriba expressed his eagerness to be observed by the world as the player he showcased during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons with Valencia, following what he acknowledged as some ‘errors’ in his career.

During the 2021/22 season, Moriba coincided with coach José Bordalás at Valencia, marking his first year on loan from Leipzig after being transferred from Barcelona. Now, in the winter transfer window, he has reunited with Bordalás at Getafe.

During his official presentation, Moriba praised his coach and stated his enthusiasm to regain his best form after spending half a season without minutes at Leipzig.

“I believe that one is neither very good yesterday nor very bad today. I made mistakes, and that’s what life is about—learning from one’s actions. I have immense love for my life’s club, Barcelona. I made mistakes, and now I am at a point where I want everyone to see the player they saw,” Moriba said.

“I am eager to start playing here, to earn everyone’s respect as I did before. Whether the decision to leave Barcelona in 2021 was right or not, I am happy to be here now, and I want to prove that I am still the same and work towards it,” he added.

Moriba admitted that one of the main reasons for choosing Getafe was the presence of Bordalás on the sidelines. “He is someone I have to thank a lot. Despite the tough times I went through, he knew how to bring out the best in me and motivate me. There were moments when I lost confidence in myself, and I hope we can do it again now. He is one of the best or the best coach I have had. I come with the desire to give everything for him because they have trusted me,” he emphasized.

Referring to his decision-making process, Moriba mentioned that he didn’t want to consider other offers because he knows Bordalás, understands what he demands, and believes he can deliver. “I want to start enjoying football every week and let people talk badly about me. People don’t know me; I have never spoken, and I don’t have to explain to people what they say about me. I just want to be like any kid starting to play now; I just want to enjoy football,” he further stated.

Expressing deep love for football as a sport and profession crucial to him and his family, Moriba revealed that what others said about him did hurt him but managed to stay ‘calm’ to face the situation.

“Not speaking and not giving statements is the best thing I have done because everything I say will be taken the wrong way. I prefer to focus on football. I wasn’t playing in Germany. I had the Africa Cup of Nations with my country, and I knew Bordalás. He told me he wanted me to come to Getafe, and I didn’t want to listen to more offers. I need to play, regain minutes, and prove what I am capable of,” he explained.

Discussing Getafe, Moriba described it as ‘a great family and a humble team’ with ambitions to achieve more. Therefore, he asserted that the entire team needs extra motivation to aim high.

When asked about Getafe players who have impressed him, he mentioned three: “I knew Alderete; I played with him at Valencia. Also, Greenwood, who doesn’t know him. La Liga is lucky to have him here, and we must take care of him. Borja Mayoral has had an incredible year; he deserves to go to the national team. There’s Milla too. There are good footballers, and we have to believe that we are good and aim for more.”

Moriba also addressed his physical discomfort. While with Guinea at the Africa Cup of Nations, he had to return early due to a minor injury. “I am working on it, and gradually I will be available for the coach when he says. I want to return as soon as possible. I am the first one who wants to play, but it has to be done sensibly without forcing. The second half is almost here. It is better to take it easy but steadily. Recover well and be at my best. I am here to help the team,” he concluded.