Barcelona and Spain international Ferran Torres has explained his decision to leave Manchester City earlier this year, to return to his native Spain and join the Camp Nou club.
The former Valencia forward spent just one and a half seasons at the Etihad Stadium, winning the Premier League title in his first campaign and offering versatility and a helping hand in the striker position at times under Pep Guardiola.
However, his career in Sky Blue was cut short, when Barcelona manager Xavi ultimately came calling midway through the 2021/22 season, admitting his desire to sign Torres and make him a focal point in the Camp Nou club's rebuild.
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Speaking during a new interview this week, Ferran Torres has revealed the reasons behind his decision to leave the Etihad Stadium for the Catalan giants, while also admitting that he could have simply remained in the Premier League if he wanted to.
In conversation with Spanish media outlet El Partidazo de COPE, Ferran Torres explained, "I could have stayed at Manchester City winning many titles, but I wanted a new challenge."
He continued, "Signing for Barcelona is an honour in itself, but when Xavi calls you, it's a no brainer."
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In the months that followed Ferran Torres' departure, Manchester City went on yet another successful run in the English top-flight, eventually winning the Premier League crown on the final day of the season in dramatic fashion.
Elsewhere, Torres' transfer fee has also been put to good use, as Manchester City officials secured the signing of Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland last month, with the Norwegian forward set to arrive at the club this summer.
While Torres impressed many with his ability to operate in the lone striker position and false-nine role, Haaland will undoubtedly be a significant upgrade in quality, with the Norway international holding a staggering goalscoring record at both RB Salzburg and in the Bundesliga in past seasons.
Topics: Ferran Torres, Barcelona, Manchester City, La Liga, Premier League
Freddie Pye