Ander Astralaga, goalkeeper for Barça Atlètic, has confirmed his departure from the club at the end of his contract in the 2025/26 season. The player shared a farewell message on social media expressing gratitude for his years spent within the club’s structure.
Astralaga arrived in Barcelona in 2018 as a child with the dream of building a football career. Over eight years, he progressed through La Masia, regularly training with the first team and receiving several call-ups. His first first-team invitations came in the 2022/23 season, and in 2023/24 he travelled with the team for 38 matches.
In the 2024/25 season, Ander was included in 26 first-team squads under Hansi Flick, serving as the third-choice goalkeeper but never making an official debut. In his farewell, he remarked, "I arrived in Barcelona eight years ago as a child, with the illusion that one day this could become my profession. Today I leave with memories that that child would never have imagined living."
He also emphasized the importance of relationships built over the years: "Growing up in La Masia, wearing the shirt of this very special club, and sharing the locker room with some of the best players in the world has been a real privilege. Above all, I take people. Teammates, coaches, club workers, and friends with whom I have grown up, who have made these years an unforgettable stage. The friendships that this path leaves me are, without a doubt, the most valuable gift I take."
Although his next steps remain unknown, the club’s coaches valued his talent and contributions. It is yet to be seen which club Ander Astralaga will join as he continues his career outside Barcelona.
