‘I am leaving a part of myself behind ‘ - Man Utd star pens heartfelt letter as she completes Barca move

Ona Batlle has paid tribute to the “great family “ of Manchester United as her move to Barcelona was confirmed.

The full-back’s move to Barcelona Femení was confirmed by the Spanish club this morning after weeks of speculation that she would be return to the club upon the expiry of her United contract.

Batlle was a stand out player for the Red Devils’ last season and they finished in their best ever position of second in the WSL and reached the FA Cup Final for the first time but the lure of Barcelona proved to be too much in the end as she returned to her homeland.

On the move 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. . For me, Barça has always been in my heart and it’s not easy to say no.” However, despite departing the club, the Spanish star penned a heartfelt letter to United fans via her social media account.

“Reds...I would like to thank the opportunity to have been part of this great club’s history, of this great family” she wrote.

“What this badge represents goes beyond. The unity betwen the team and the fans, between people who feel the same colours and experience football in a different way. We have grown hand in hand, we have lived moments that will forever live in our memories, which are already part of the history, the history of Man United Women.

“Thank you beyond words for welcoming me from the first moment, each and every person who has been part of these years, I cannot be more greatful. I feel like I am leaving a part of myself behind, I have been very happy here, you have made me feel at home.

“I will always be proud to say I was a Red Devil. Once a red, always a red.”

Batlle, 24, has penned a three-year deal with Barcelona.