Vintage Boots: Botia Horae

Botia Horae

Aged just eight years old, Botía began playing for CD Beniel, soon joining neighbours Real Murcia, and remaining there for three years. In 2003, he moved to FC Barcelona, being inserted into its B team after a further three seasons. On 30 May 2009, he made his official debut with the main squad, coming on as a second-half substitute for Gerard Piqué in the side's final game of the season, a 1–1 away draw against Deportivo de La Coruña.^[1]

On 14 July 2009, Botía was sent to fellow La Liga outfit Sporting de Gijón, on a season-long loan.^[2] An undisputed starter throughout his first season in the top-tier, he decided to extend his stay with the Asturias club in a four-year deal.^]