Ranking all 15 La Masia talents that made their Barcelona debut under Xavi

La Masia has been churning out absolute world-class talent since forever, with the 2000s truly producing some of the biggest name the sport has ever seen, including Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and so many more.

This current batch of youngsters are not half-bad, either. The likes of Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, Gavi, Pau Cubarsi, and others have already taken centre-stage this season, and are contesting at the highest level in Europe, too.

While their talent is undeniable, a large part of the credit has to be given to Xavi who has not shied away from trusting the club’s academy in time of need, and choosing meritocracy over reputation.

So far, 15 La Masia youngsters have made their debut under Xavi, and the list could soon grow to 16 today, with Mikayil Faye in line to play vs Cadiz.

Barça Universal ranks these 15 debutants based on how they have fared since been given their first minutes on the pitch by the Spanish manager, and of course, on their ability and profile.

1. Lamine Yamal – Right-winger

No doubts about that. At 16, what Lamine Yamal has done this season is truly ridiculous. He has not only broken through the Barcelona first-team, but also seamlessly taken over the right-wing spot.

Not only is he truly one of the most talented players to ever graduate from La Maia, but he has also ten direct goal contributions to go with all the other impact he makes on the pitch. Truly generational.

2. Pau Cubarsi – Centre-back

The man of the hour, and one of the leading reasons behind Barcelona’s changed fortunes, Pau Cubarsi is the ice man. He is inarguably the most exciting centre-back to graduate from La Masia since Gerard Pique.

Defensive prodigy. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

While he has all the traits of a proper defender, as someone with pace, positioning, and anticipation, his passing ability has stood out head and shoulders above everyone in Europe.

3. Chadi Riad – Centre-back

An interesting…

Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/ranking-all-15-la-masia-talents-that-made-their-barcelona-debut-under-xavi/

Author : Udhav Arora

Publish date : 2024-04-14 06:48:00

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