Villarreal’s Georges Mikautadze (26) has told L’Équipe that he is “ready to go to a big club” following interest from Barcelona in the summer. The former Olympique Lyonnais and FC Metz forward has also admitted to having a difficult start to the season.

Last season, Mikautadze excelled, scoring 16 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions. That came following his move from Lyon that summer, with the Ligue 1 club forced to sell in order to honour commitments made to French football’s financial watchdog, the DNCG.

His form drew interest from Barcelona, however, Hansi Flick wasn’t in favour of the transfer. “It is flattering and it motivates me even more. It also means that the work is done well. On top of that, since the Xavi-Iniesta-Busquets and the MSN (Messi-Suarez-Neymar), I have been a Barca fan […] but I didn’t think too much about that. I was focused on my pre-season,” said the Georgian.

Mikautadze disappointed by start to the season

However, this season has so far been more of a struggle for Mikautadze. He has five goals in 15 games in all competitions, but has made just five starts in La Liga. The striker has admitted to feeling frustrated about the situation. “I want to play every match, to be a starter and show that I’m a great striker. When that isn’t the case, or you come off early, you’re disappointed,” he said.

And he has also admitted that he has one eye on a move. “My dream to play for a big club? I started playing football for that reason. I want to have a taste of going even higher. I am 26, but I think that I am ready to go to a big club. I have everything to do it and I try to show it every time. I maybe just need a bit more time,” said Mikautadze.