Hartman’s 16-bit transfer reveal: from Burnley exile to Espanyol’s ‘Perico’

Quilindschy Hartman will continue his career at Espanyol, the La Liga club from Barcelona, after officially completing a move from Burnley. The left-back leaves England after one season on loan, having been unable to prevent Burnley’s relegation from the Premier League.

Espanyol’s acquisition of Hartman—nicknamed ‘Perico’ by the club—follows months of speculation linking the defender to the Spanish side. Rumours intensified six months ago when Hartman found himself sidelined at Burnley, with sightings of the player in the stands at Espanyol during that period.

Hartman returned to action in England in the final weeks of the season, but his appearances could not alter Burnley’s fate. Now, after one year away, he departs the club as it drops into the Championship.

The new arrival at Espanyol is not a coincidence: the Spanish club shares owner Alan Pace with Burnley. Hartman will initially join on loan, with no mention made of a permanent transfer option. This move marks his third club, following spells at Feyenoord and Burnley.

His Spanish transfer was announced in an unconventional way—a 16-bit style video packed with personal references to his hobbies, passions, and former employers. The video features his character wearing kits from Feyenoord, Burnley, Espanyol, and his recently launched Hartman Performance Academy.

“Quilindschy is a player with a very unique story and style,” said Carlos Berkhout, creative director and co-owner of BY8 Media, the agency that assisted with the announcement. “His diverse hobbies reveal a lot about what drives him off the pitch. We translated that personal world into a 16-bit gaming-style video, where the move to Espanyol represents reaching a new level.”

Espanyol’s recruitment team will now monitor Hartman’s adaptation to La Liga, with the defender set to wear the ‘Perico’ shirt next season.