Javier Burrai signed a touching farewell to Barcelona SC, preparing to begin a new chapter of his career in Argentina. Despite having a contract with the club, Burrai finds himself outside of the team’s plans for the future. The Ecuador goalkeeper reflected on his journey in an emotional letter, recalling his arrival in Guayaquil in December 2019, during which he waited a week in a hotel while his transfer from Macará was finalized. At 34, Burrai admits to being a man of few words, but his decision to say goodbye speaks volumes. Upon joining Barcelona, he was overwhelmed by the excitement surrounding the club. “I stopped going out like I used to in Argentina, where I even owned a restaurant. The fans asked me only one thing: to become champion; the word ‘champion’ became my inseparable companion,” said noted Burrai. He spoke of sharing his dreams of success with his father, Óscar, who had supported his football journey from a young age. Sadly, Óscar passed away before seeing his son’s triumph, but Burrai felt his presence during a key moment in December 2020, when he saved a crucial penalty against Borja at the Rodrigo Paz Stadium. Throughout his time at Barcelona, Burrai encountered various challenges, including a significant injury during the Copa Libertadores. Although he played 22 matches in LigaPro last season, he admits that the long periods on the bench and the recovery phases were confusing and difficult to accept. As he leaves, Burrai acknowledges that stories might emerge from his departure, but he emphasizes that none will capture the full truth of his experience. In Barcelona, he experienced bittersweet moments, including the loss of his father and his first coach, who played a fatherly role in his life. He also remembers Justin Cornejo, a young goalkeeper who has since joined his father. “Sometimes I don’t understand why football is so cruel. I’m leaving against my will, but I won’t say more. You all know I’m a reserved person,” he said. Burrai expressed wishing he had explored Guayaquil more, but every time he tried to go out, he found himself hesitant at the entrance to his neighborhood. He fondly remembers the warmth of the home fans and shares a poignant memory of a child who once kept a pair of his gloves, testament to the deep connection he formed during his time at the club.
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