Thiago Alcantara has released a letter thanking Barcelona for their support during his time at the club and also encouraging Tito Vilanova.
The midfielder, who came through the youth ranks at the Camp Nou, last week completed a move to Bayern Munich for €25m.
“I leave the house that I spent 14 years at…it was a difficult decision, tough. It is a stage that has closed, with changes now ahead,” Thiago wrote to supporters in a letter released today.
“Today I have the same enthusiasm for playing football as when I arrived at Barcelona as a child. And that ambition, enthusiasm and sporting circumstances led me to Munich.
“In Barcelona I grew as a player and as a person. It sounds cliché, and is what is said in these situations, but it is really the case. I want to thank each and every person at the club. Barca and its people have given me everything, I have grown, matured and have learned from both good and bad situations.
“Comrades, technical staff, employees, fans, above all, you, the fans…who are great for this club in victory and defeat. To all of you, thank you for the years. Thanks to those who supported me in more difficult moments. All of the love I received I will take with me to this new stage. This I am already realising, the baggage of my years at Barca is great, and it is staying with me.
“And you, Tito, a fighter…as we told Abi: ‘Stones in the road? Keep them all, one day you build a castle’. No doubt you will come out ahead.
“A grateful hug and long live Barca!”
