By Betsefy
Barcelona have re-signed full-back Hector Bellerin from Arsenal on a free transfer.
Bellerin initially left Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy to join Arsenal as a 16-year-old in 2011, and has been linked with a return to Camp Nou on numerous occasions since.
Now 27, the defender has finally returned to his boyhood club after agreeing to terminate his contract at the Emirates Stadium.
The four-time Spain international spent last season on loan with Real Betis and has not played for Arsenal since 2021 after falling out of favour in North London.
Bellerin has now ended his 11-year stay with the Gunners and penned a one-year contract with Barcelona.
Once a Culer, always a Culer #MadeInLaMasia 💙❤ pic.twitter.com/8fYEggvsOK
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 1, 2022
The deal includes a €50m (£43.1m) buyout clause, although the short nature of the deal means that Bellerin would be available to open talks with clubs over a free transfer as early as January.
In total, Bellerin made 239 appearances for Arsenal across all competitions, scoring nine goals and helping the club to win three FA Cups in that time.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta addressed his compatriot’s exit, telling the club’s official website: “We today say goodbye to Hector and we thank him so much for his loyalty and commitment to Arsenal Football Club.
“During his 11 years with Arsenal, Hector won three FA Cups and made nearly 250 appearances – such a huge contribution to the club. I’m privileged to have played in the same squad as Hector for three seasons, wearing the Arsenal shirt and sharing many great moments on and off the football pitch together.
“We thank you Hector and wish you and your family all the best for your return to Barcelona.”
The Spaniard enjoyed more domestic cup success last season when he helped Betis lift the Copa del Rey for the first time since 2005.
Bellerin could make his senior debut for Barcelona on Saturday, when Xavi‘s side take on Sevilla.
