Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has shared the details of what happened this summer when he was linked with a move to Arsenal.
Garcia was linked with the Gunners throughout the summer and was tipped to replace Aaron Ramsdale who was on his way out of the club. A move for Garcia failed to materialize, and Arsenal signed Bournemouth keeper Neto instead.
Mikel Arteta revamped the team’s goalkeeping department; bringing in David Raya on a permanent deal and adding Neto on a loan deal. While Aaron Ramsdale joined Southampton.
Ramsdale left the club after being replaced as number one, and said he has nothing against Arsenal or Mikel Arteta:
“No, I’ve been around football long enough that the manager’s decision is the manager’s decision.
“I tried my best to change his mind and force my way back in. His mind was set and at the same time David had a great season.”
“You can have all the upset or qualms about being taken out but when someone else is delivering, you’ve just got to take it on the chin.”
“It was tough but I’ve found a new home and I’m looking forward to playing again. You move on, there’s no bad blood and you’ve got to restart your career again.”
Joan Garcia felt ‘isolated’ during the transfer window
Garcia was on international duty at the Olympic Games for most of the summer. Spain won gold in the men’s football tournament. The keeper revealed that the whole saga was an ‘intense’ feeling:
“During the entire market I was quite isolated,” he said.
“I was at the Olympic Games and when I arrived La Liga was already starting. The last few days were more intense, but I was very isolated, focusing on what I had to do, which is the field. I managed not to get distracted.
“Regarding my continuity, I am very happy that people are happy that I have stayed. I have worked all these years for this – playing with Espanyol in the First Division – and this is how it is. I hope to take advantage of it.
“With the Olympic Games I came when the season was already beginning. I’ve barely had time to think about it. It was the opportunity I’ve been working for, and I couldn’t afford to have my head out of it. Everything comes to you, but I had to be very calm with my head where it should be.”
Garcia is focused on his club career with Espanyol, who currently sit in 12th place in La Liga after 5 games.
