‘Special day’ – Jan Virgili reacts to Barcelona reunion

Barcelona, Sunday — Real Mallorca winger Jan Virgili described Saturday’s return to Camp Nou as a “special day” after facing his former employers in La Liga and sharing a post-match embrace with Barça coach Hansi Flick.

The 19-year-old, who came off the bench for Mallorca, tormented the hosts with his pace and direct running, reinforcing the impression that the Catalans were wise to insert a first-refusal clause when they allowed him to leave in a previous window.

Within minutes of the final whistle Virgili posted a series of match photos on social media, the most striking of which showed him hugging Flick on the touchline. “Special day, keep working,” read the accompanying caption — a succinct summary of an evening that is sure to intensify speculation about a summer return to Barcelona.

Flick, asked about the youngster in his pre-game press conference, had already offered an encouraging assessment: “What I can say is what I see, which is that he’s doing a great job at Mallorca. I’m very happy for him.”

With Virgili tipped for a move at the end of the season and several clubs monitoring his progress, performances like Saturday’s ensure he will not lack suitors. Barcelona, for their part, intend to keep a close eye on the teenager they still regard as one for the future.