European champions FC Barcelona have completed the signing of Manchester United full-back Ona Batlle on a three-year deal.
The Catalan club announced news of the transfer via a post on their official club website this morning. Batlle was out of contract at Manchester United this summer and she therefore joins Barcelona on a free transfer. The defender spent the early years of her career with the Spanish club before enjoying spells with Madrid CFF, Levante and latest club Manchester United.
The 24-year-old has spent the last three seasons with The Red Devils. She has made 59 appearances for the club in the Barclays Women’s Super League, scoring two goals. Batlle was a member of the Manchester United side which finished as runners-up both in the Barclays Women’s Super League and Vitality Women’s FA Cup this season.
Manchester United boss Marc Skinner was keen to retain the player’s services for the long-term, however, Batlle was always expected to re-join Barcelona this summer.
After re-signing with the Spanish giants, Batlle said “It has always been my dream to be in the Barça first team. It’s true that I left, but I did it with the mindset that I could come back. I’m really looking forward to it and I am excited to share the dressing room and experiences with the players.
“For me, Barça has always been in my heart and it’s not easy to say no; from the first moment I have had it in mind.
“I have a lot more experience than when I left. I’ve been very happy in England but I’m very happy to be able to come back and continue my career here.”
Batlle joins teammate Alessia Russo in leaving Manchester United this summer.
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