Manchester City legend David Silva has revealed that Barcelona attempted to sign him in 2008, two years before he completed his move to the Etihad Stadium.
The former Spain international confirmed that ex-Barcelona sporting director Txiki Begiristain contacted him following Spain's European Championship triumph, but Valencia refused to sanction a transfer.
Despite missing out on a move to the Catalan giants, Silva insists joining Manchester City in 2010 was the best decision of his career.
Barcelona approached Silva after Euro 2008 triumph
Silva established himself as one of Spanish football's most exciting midfielders during his time at Valencia, attracting interest from several leading European clubs.
Speaking to former footballer Mario Suárez on El Camino de Mario, in comments relayed by Sport, Silva revealed Barcelona's interest.
"In 2008, Txiki called me, after we won the European Championship with the national team. At that time, he was at Barca. Valencia wasn't selling players then."
Valencia's financial difficulties eventually forced the club to sell key players, including Silva and David Villa, in 2010.
While Villa joined Barcelona, Silva moved to Manchester City, beginning a decade-long spell that established him as one of the Premier League's most influential midfielders.
Silva insists Manchester City was his best decision
Silva spent ten seasons at City, recording 77 goals and 136 assists in 436 Premier League appearances.
He also helped the club win five league titles and became a central figure in their rise to domestic dominance.
Reflecting on his decision, the 40-year-old said: "The best decision was to go to City. I had 10 spectacular years there, and the people treated me incredibly well."
Silva also revealed that former City manager Roberto Mancini played an important role in securing his signature.
"There were always rumours, like Real Madrid's interest. When I returned from South Africa, the goal was already to go to City."
After leaving Manchester in 2020, Silva spent three years with Real Sociedad before retiring in 2023.
He recently returned to football, joining Hong Kong club Sha Tin on a short-term agreement.
Key Points
- David Silva reveals Barcelona approached him after Euro 2008.
- Txiki Begiristain contacted Silva while working as Barcelona's sporting director.
- Valencia initially refused to sell the midfielder.
- Silva joined Manchester City in 2010 and spent ten successful seasons at the club.
- The Spaniard describes moving to City as the best decision of his career.
What's Next?
Silva is beginning a new chapter with Hong Kong side Sha Tin following his surprise return to professional football.
His latest comments also offer Manchester City supporters another reminder of how close the club came to missing out on one of its most celebrated players.
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