Former Manchester City midfielder David Silva has revealed that Barcelona made an attempt to sign him in 2008 after Spain won the European Championship, but Valencia refused to let him leave.

According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Silva disclosed that Barcelona approached him through then-club official Txiki Begiristain, who was interested in bringing the Spanish playmaker to the Camp Nou.

Speaking on the El Camino de Mario podcast, Silva recalled receiving the approach shortly after Spain’s triumph at Euro 2008. However, Valencia were unwilling to negotiate his departure at the time, bringing the potential transfer to an end before it could progress.

Silva had attracted considerable attention through his performances for Valencia and the Spanish national team, establishing himself as one of Spain’s promising creative midfielders.

Valencia’s financial problems eventually led to the departure of several important players, including Silva and fellow Spain international David Villa. Villa joined Barcelona in 2010, while Silva opted for a move to the Premier League.

The midfielder subsequently signed for Manchester City, where he spent a decade becoming one of the most influential players in the club’s history.

Reflecting on his career in England, Silva described joining City as the right decision, praising the treatment he received throughout his time at the club. He also acknowledged that Real Madrid had shown interest in him, although Manchester City had become his preferred destination.

Barcelona’s failed pursuit remains an interesting chapter in Silva’s career, given his technical ability, vision and close control. His qualities could have made him a natural fit for the possession-oriented football associated with Barcelona during the era of Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.

Nevertheless, the Catalan club already had a formidable midfield, meaning Silva would potentially have faced significant competition for a regular place in the starting lineup.

His decision to join Manchester City ultimately proved successful. During his ten years at the Etihad Stadium, Silva won four Premier League titles and established himself as a club legend through his creativity, consistency and influence in midfield.

After leaving City, the Spaniard returned to La Liga with Real Sociedad, continuing his career in his homeland before eventually retiring from professional football.

Although Barcelona missed the opportunity to sign him in 2008, Silva went on to enjoy an outstanding career in England, helping Manchester City establish themselves among the Premier League’s leading clubs.