Victor Valdes offers 'explanation' for Barcelona exit plans
Goalkeeper will not renew his contract which expires next summer
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Your support makes all the difference.Victor Valdes says the pressure of being the Barcelona number one for so long is behind his decision to seek an exit from the Nou Camp.
The goalkeeper revealed earlier this year that he would not sign a new contract at the Nou Camp, with his current deal set to expire next summer.
The stopper has been linked with a switch to the Premier League as well as big spending Monaco.
It remains to be seen whether Barcelona will opt to cash in on three-time Champions League winner this summer or allow his contract to run down and see him leave for free next year.
Valdes revealed he will discuss the options with the club and also offered an explanation for his decision during a news conference today.
"I know I owe the club members and fans an explanation for why I decided not to renew my contract," said Valdes at the press conference, which was also attended by team mates Andres Iniesta, Carles Puyol and Xavi.
"Barca has given me everything and I owe them everything, but being a goalkeeper here takes it out of you. It is an irreversible decision and I didn't want people to debate the economics of a possible new contract and how much I love this club.
"I have a year left but I am open to talks with the club to find the best solution for both."
The 31-year-old has been Barca's number one since the 2003-4 season, helping them win six La Liga titles and three Champions League crowns. He has also won five Zamora trophies for being the goalkeeper to have conceded the fewest goals in a La Liga season.
When he leaves the Nou Camp, there has been speculation that Barcelona will move for Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina, who played for the Catalan club up until 2002.
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