When asked at a Nike event in Andorra during the summer whether he would rather play for Real Madrid or for Stoke City in the Premier League, the predictable reply from the Barcelona wide-man was 'in Stoke'. Of course, it was a futile question to ask a 20 year old kid trying to cut his teeth at the Nou Camp, but unbeknownst to the majority, the tricky winger almost did spend last season plying his trade for the Potters. Having lit up the Premier League last season during his season-long loan at Goodison Park, Mark Hughes couldn't help but ruefully look on, as he regretted his failure at landing the exciting Catalan talent.
''We were aware of him and knew he was a talent. We made an inquiry ourselves. We brought in Marc Muniesa and were aware he was up for a loan deal as well, but unfortunately he came here to Everton and not to Stoke.'' - Mark Hughes, December 2013.
Hughes would return to his old club once more to tie up a deal for forgotten man Bojan Krkic, to add some more spice and flavour to the Britannia Stadium. They have certainly changed their style and rhythm since the days of Tony Pulis.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
