Six La Masia full-backs who could step up for FC Barcelona after injury setbacks

FC Barcelona pushed onerous to overturn the heavy first-leg defeat towards Atlético Madrid within the Copa del Rey semi-final and got here near producing a memorable comeback. The Catalan aspect gained the second leg 3-0 however in the end fell wanting erasing the 4-0 deficit from the primary leg, bringing their cup run to an finish.

The dramatic effort additionally got here at a value for Hansi Flick’s aspect. Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde each picked up accidents throughout the tie, leaving Barcelona extraordinarily wanting choices within the full-back positions. With Jofre Torrents nonetheless recovering, the German coach at present has Joao Cancelo as the one pure full-back accessible within the senior squad.

Eric Garcia is considered internally as probably the most dependable choice to cowl at proper again, whereas Ronald Araujo and Marc Casado is also used as emergency options on the flanks if required. Nevertheless, Flick has already began wanting in the direction of La Masia to strengthen his defensive choices if the harm scenario worsens within the coming weeks.

Step one got here when the Barcelona supervisor referred to as up children Xavi Espart and Patricio Pacifico to coach with the primary crew. Past them, SPORT has recognized six most promising younger fullbacks enjoying within the reserve crew or arising by means of the ranks.

1: Xavi Espart

Xavi Espart has grow to be one of many key gamers for Juliano Belletti’s Barca B. The 18-year-old full-back initially developed as a midfielder earlier than progressively adapting to the best again position throughout his years within the academy.

Regardless of the positional change, he has retained the creativity and creativeness typical of a midfielder. Espart is dependable defensively but in addition harmful when pushing ahead, because of his acceleration and energy, qualities that make his runs from deep tough for opponents to cease. His versatility even permits him to often characteristic in midfield for the reserve crew.

2: Guillem Victor

Guillem Victor is at present splitting his time between Juvenil A and Barca Atlètic and is broadly considered one of the crucial versatile defenders within the academy. The 18-year-old defender is of course a proper again with sturdy attacking instincts and stable technical potential.

His adaptability permits him to function on the left flank, as a winger, and even in midfield. This flexibility stems from his sturdy understanding of the sport and constant decision-making. Whereas he contributes successfully in assault, he’s nonetheless refining the defensive points of his recreation as he continues his improvement.

3: Nile Weaver

Nil Teixidor is taken into account one of many purest full-backs coming by means of the Barcelona youth system. The 17-year-old defender combines defensive reliability with spectacular attacking output.

He supplies width, delivers correct crosses, and has the stamina to repeatedly run up and down the flank all through matches. Teixidor additionally possesses wonderful soccer intelligence, which permits him to learn the sport nicely.

At Juvenil A, he competes with Guillem Victor for the beginning proper again place and also can play as a centre again when wanted. After lately coming back from harm, he rapidly made an affect with an creative help towards Mallorca U19.

4: Raul Exposito

Raul Exposito has benefited from the latest motion throughout the youth groups. Guillem Victor’s involvement with Barca Atlètic and Nil Teixidor’s harm opened the door for the 16-year-old to achieve common minutes with Juvenil A.

Initially a centre again throughout his early years, Exposito transitioned to full again whereas sustaining lots of the defensive qualities of his former place. Recognized by the nickname Rulo, the Sabadell-born defender is intense, aggressive, and extremely dedicated on the pitch. Along with his sturdy defensive work, he additionally carries a strong long-range shot and may be harmful throughout set items.

5: Bernabeu Pol

Pol Bernabeu joined Barcelona from Espanyol as a midfielder on the U14 stage earlier than ultimately establishing himself as a left again. Now a key participant for Juvenil A beneath coach Pol Planas, the 18-year-old stands out for his technical high quality and attacking instincts.

His background as a midfielder is clear in his creativity, passing potential, and powerful reference to teammates in superior areas. Bernabeu not often misplaces passes and infrequently seems to be to enhance the movement of possession. Whereas his physicality can generally be examined by quick wingers, his positioning and focus assist him stay reliable defensively.

6: Jordi Pesquer

Jordi Pesquer is one other thrilling left-back prospect progressing by means of the ranks. The 17-year-old combines top, bodily power, and a high-quality left foot, making him a well-rounded possibility on the flank.

Pesquer can win duels defensively whereas additionally providing fixed help in assault because of his stamina and skill to ship correct crosses. He additionally possesses a strong shot from distance.

After an inconsistent marketing campaign final season, the defender has rediscovered his kind and has grow to be one of many standout performers for Juvenil B beneath coach Cesc Bosch.

With accidents at present limiting Barcelona’s defensive depth, these La Masia prospects may quickly discover themselves nearer to first-team alternatives as Hansi Flick continues to watch the academy for potential reinforcements.