Alvaro Cortes leaves Barcelona for Royal Antwerp on deadline day

Defender Alvaro Cortes confirmed his departure from FC Barcelona following a transfer to Royal Antwerp on deadline day. In a statement posted to social media, the player expressed gratitude for his time at the club, where he had served as captain after joining as a teenager. While he noted that the exit was unexpected and not in the manner he would have chosen, he stated he felt satisfied with his contributions during his tenure. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the move, explaining that the transfer was necessary as the defender would not receive sufficient playing time at the club. Cortes leaves the Catalan side after years of progression through the ranks, citing his appreciation for the coaches, teammates, and supporters who facilitated his development as a professional. He now transitions to Royal Antwerp to continue his career.

• 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — ‘I have to say goodbye in a way I didn’t expect’ – Alvaro Cortes sends message to Barcelona fans