Jesse Bissio relishing Barcelona start after first talks with Hansi Flick

Jesse Bissio says joining Barcelona has turned a childhood ambition into reality after the 18-year-old Belgian completed his move from Club Brugge.

Bissio finalised the transfer on Tuesday, signing a contract with the Catalan club until 2031 in the presence of Barcelona president Joan Laporta at the club’s offices.

Barcelona have paid Club Brugge 8.5m euros for the teenager, who described his first days at the club as highly positive after receiving a warm welcome from staff and players.

“It has been a great first few days. I have been welcomed by a wonderful family and I am extremely grateful for that,” Bissio said in comments reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“They welcomed me very warmly, everyone is very friendly and I am very grateful.”

Bissio said the experience of arriving at Barcelona had made a greater impression than he had expected.

“Being here and seeing it for myself feels different. I am very happy to be here,” he added.

The Belgian also spoke about the ambition he had developed as a child to represent one of the world’s biggest clubs.

“When I was young, I always dreamed of playing for a big club like Barcelona, so being here is a dream come true for me,” he said.

Bissio has already spoken to Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick, who explained the expectations placed on him during his first season at the club.

“He welcomed me very well and we have had some conversations. It is very easy to understand what I have to do this year: work hard and learn as much as possible,” Bissio said.

The youngster also addressed his physical condition and said he would be ready to contribute whenever Flick called upon him.

“When the coach needs me, I will be there. I just want to work hard to be ready,” he said.

Bissio ended by discussing Camp Nou, a stadium he has seen many times but has not yet visited in person.

“I have watched Camp Nou on television, but not in real life,” he said.

His arrival adds another young player to Barcelona’s squad, while the terms of the deal underline the club’s long-term commitment to the Belgian. Bissio’s contract runs through to 2031, giving him the opportunity to develop within the Catalan club after making the move from Club Brugge.

For now, his immediate focus is on adapting to his new surroundings, learning from Flick and ensuring he is prepared when required. The player said the initial reception had made the transition easier and expressed his gratitude for the welcome he had received since completing the transfer.