Victor Valdes: I Will Leave Barca

After 11 years and 19 titles with Barcelona, Victor Valdes has announced that he is ready to move on. In an interview with FourFourTwo Magazine, Valdes revealed that he has thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Catalan Giants, but is more than ready for a change.

“It’s hard to imagine wearing another shirt, but I’ve been doing this for 11 years. I will leave Barca.”

While he says the pressure to succeed at Barca is daunting, Valdes has made it clear that it isn’t the team’s recent blips that have swayed his position; instead it is his hunger for a new experience.

“One year as Barcelona keeper is like three years at another team. The pressure is immense. I want to try new cultures, new football, new challenges.” He told FourFourTwo.

Speculation began earlier this year after he refused to extend his contract beyond the 2013-14 season. Support from fans has flooded in, but he remains firm in his vision.

“Sincerely, I’ve had great times here – I love it here at Barcelona. I will always come back here, but I have this wonderful job which allows me to travel, and I want to travel.”

Valdes began his Barcelona career in 2000, making his way up from the C team to the first team in only two years. He now holds the club record for the most appearances made by a goalkeeper.

So where next for the six-foot stopper? Rumors have been circulating linking him with a number of English clubs. Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool have all been linked with potential bids. Would that entice Valdes?

“I like the Premier League. I like the respect of the crowd towards footballers in England. It’s a different way of living football. They clap a simple tackle in England – we’re not used to that. I really like it.”

Whether Valdes stays true to his current contract or chooses to leave this summer is remain to be seen. His desires however, have been revealed.