Barcelona legend, 32, breaks down in tears as he leaves after 18 YEARS and 25 trophies with Spanish giants
SERGI ROBERTO broke down in tears while giving his farewell address to Barcelona.
The club had arranged a special presentation for the midfielder to say his goodbyes to staff, players and fans.
RexSergi Roberto paid a tearful goodbye to Barcelona[/caption]
RexHe struggled to keep hold of his emotions after 18 years at the club[/caption]
An emotional Roberto, 32, was unable to fend off tears as he spoke about leaving the club he had been at since he was 14.
All of the Barcelona squad attended the presentation including new signing Dani Olmo, who is still not officially registered as a Barcelona player.
The presentation showed a highlight reel of his best moments in a Barcelona shirt stretching all the way back to his debut in 2010.
After seeing some of his past team-mates beamed onto the screen, Roberto turned to the crowd and said: “Now it is my turn [to leave],” as he fought back tears.
He said he was “eternally grateful” to the club for providing him with a host of “unforgettable moments”.
Barca president Joan Laporta said: “Sergi Roberto has been an example. I can only say thank you for your commitment and your gratitude. Barça is, and always will be, your home.”
Club legends Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique and former manager Xavi also attended the farewell.
The player made 373 appearances for Barcelona, winning 25 trophies along the way.
Messi paid tribute to the playerInstagram @leomessi
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Primarily a central midfielder, Roberto has been used more largely as a right-back for Barcelona of late.
He leaves the club as a free agent having been linked with a move to the MLS.
Lionel Messi wished Roberto the best on his Instagram, writing: “All the luck in your new stage!!. Wish you the best, Sergi Roberto!”
The latest club to show interest in Roberto as a free agent is Fiorentina, with West Ham also linked earlier this summer.
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