Aleix Vidal

A €17 million transfer fee secured Aleix Vidal’s move to FC Barcelona in 2015, marking a significant milestone in a career defined by rapid transitions across the Spanish football landscape. Known for his high-speed play on the right flank, he has operated as both a winger and a defensive fullback throughout his professional tenure.

Early Career and Developmental Years

Born in 1989 in Valls and raised in Puigpelat, Vidal began his journey as a forward. His senior career launched with CF Reus Deportiu before a move to RCD Espanyol in 2007. Lacking first-team opportunities there, he spent time on loan at Panthrakikos F.C. in Greece. Subsequent periods at Gimnàstic de Tarragona and RCD Mallorca reserves preceded his move to the Andalusian system.

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Progression at Almería and Sevilla

In 2011, Vidal joined UD Almería B, quickly earning a promotion to the first team. His contribution of four goals over 37 games helped the club secure a return to La Liga. In 2014, he signed with Sevilla FC for €3 million. His tenure there proved highly productive, highlighted by a standout performance against ACF Fiorentina in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals and a title win in the 2014-15 final against FC Dnipro.

The Barcelona Period

Vidal joined Barcelona in 2015 on a five-year contract. Due to a FIFA embargo, he could not participate in official matches until January 2016. His debut finally occurred in a Copa del Rey fixture against Espanyol. During his time at the club, he won three Copa del Rey titles and two La Liga championships, though a severe ankle injury against Deportivo Alavés interrupted his progress in 2017.

Later Movements

Following a return to Sevilla in 2018 for a €8.5 million fee, Vidal struggled to maintain a consistent first-team role. He spent the 2019-20 season on loan at Alavés before severing ties with Sevilla by mutual consent in 2021. He subsequently returned to RCD Espanyol that August, signing a two-year deal to continue his career in the top tier.