Barcelona’s prodigy Ilaix Moriba rejected the possibility of joining Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester City, instead deciding to pursue his dream of becoming a hero at Camp Nou.
The 18-year-old has bled into the Blaugrana squad under Ronald Koeman this year, and he has made seven league appearances under the Dutchman, including a comeback in the Clasico defeat to Real Madrid.
Moriba turned down the chance to join Chelsea and Man City | Juan Manuel Serrano Arce / Getty Images
But Moriba’s father has admitted that everything could have been so different for his son. Mamady Moriba told Ser Catalunya, quoted by Mundo Deportivo, that Ilaix rejected progress from the Premier League duo Chelsea and Man City, as well as a bid from Juventus, because he insisted on making a name for himself at Barça.
“We said no to a lot of money because Ilaix wanted to play for Barça. We had offers from Chelsea, Manchester City and Juventus that were bigger than Barça, and I canceled a trip to Manchester because Barça made a strong investment.
“We will die with Culés and we want to stay at Barça.”
Mamady was full of praise for Barça coach Koeman and thanked him for the ‘confidence’ he has given his son.
Koeman has helped Moriba flourish Soccrates Images / Getty Images
“I have no words to describe [Koeman], we must thank him so much for all he has done for Ilaix and all the trust he has given him. Thanks also to the club and everyone who has helped Ilaix during all the years at La Masia. ”
Moriba is the latest graduate from the famous Masia Academy, and hopes are high for him to become a regular in Barcelona’s midfield. He almost wrote his name in Clasico history in the recent 2-1 defeat in Madrid and rattled over the crossbar with the last kick of the game.
Barça’s win, however, is Chelsea and Man City’s loss, which, however, could not convince the star to change his ambitions and go towards the Premier League.
