Ibrahim Afellay has admitted that he intends to return to Barcelona at the end of his year-long loan spell at Schalke.
Back to full fitness, the Dutchman moved to the Bundesliga outfit for this term to find form through regular game-time.
Even with that encouraging the Germans to consider a permanent move for him, and further reports indicating that his sale would help Barca’s move for Neymar, Afellay says he wants another go at Camp Nou.
“My goal is to return to Barca. But, I am enjoying my football now. That feeling is very much within me, even more than before,” the forward told OnsOranje today.
“Since my arrival at Barcelona I have evolved, both in my football and mentality. I think I have proven I can deal with adversity. There is nothing worse for a player than to tear their ligaments in a knee.”
Aflellay reflected on that very experience suffered in September 2011 whilst with the Catalans. It kept him out of action for more than seven months.
“I howled in pain, like a child. My mother palyed a key role, she was with me day and night.
“But, when I look back and think of my time at Barca I only have positive things come to mind. The training was always fun, incredible.
“Upon returning home you want to go back the next day. The speed of the ball…pfff…”
