Barcelona starlet expresses eagerness to emulate friend Gavi’s path: ‘Now it’s my turn’

Barcelona’s promising young talent, Aleix Garrido, has expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of his close friend and teammate, Gavi, by playing for the first team. The 19-year-old made his debut in La Liga last season, and it is believed that he will join the first-team squad for preseason.

Currently representing the Spanish under-19 team in the Euros, Garrido acknowledged that he would have limited time for vacation, but he was not inclined to request additional rest.

“After returning from the national team, preseason will already be underway, and I’m not here to ask for a vacation. There’s nothing quite like being able to do preseason with the first team. It’s one thing to be called up for a game and another to spend weeks with your idols, getting to know them personally, and competing in every training session and match to earn a place in the team one day,” Garrido shared in an interview with Radio Catalunya.

Recently signing a contract extension until 2025, which includes a staggering €400 million release clause, Garrido acknowledges that negotiations may be required in the future.

“The release clause is quite daunting, but it ensures that no one can easily sign me. It shows that the club has a lot of trust in me and that I won’t be leaving here for the next two years.”

Regarding his commitment to Barcelona, Garrido affirmed, “I had no doubts. It was very clear to me that I wanted to continue at Barca.”

Having played alongside Gavi for an extended period, Garrido admitted that the prospect of playing with him for the senior team is something they have both imagined.

“We’ve enjoyed our time together for a long time. We have a good relationship, and we still maintain a close bond. We’ve contemplated the idea of playing together in the first team, although it’s very challenging. Gavi seems to have accomplished it, and now it’s up to me.”

Manager Xavi Hernandez has previously praised Garrido for his abilities, particularly his vision and passing skills. However, Garrido faces competition from the likes of Gavi, Pedri, Ilkay Gundogan, Franck Kessie, and Frenkie de Jong for a place in the first-team lineup. Nonetheless, the young talent remains determined to seize his opportunities and make his mark at Barcelona.