Barcelona youth policy is as solid as ever, as Hansi Flick continues the club’s marvelous tradition of combining academy products with the world’s best young talents.
The German boss has never shied away from having a daring approach to picking the team, showing that quality is paramount over age in his football philosophy.
This focus on emerging stars extends far beyond the Catalan borders, with Barcelona’s scouting network working around the clock to identify future superstars from all over the world’s markets.
The club’s financial situation has made this youth policy even more important, as they seek value in an overhyped transfer market while staying true to themselves.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona has talent-spotted 17-year-old Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono, arguably the most promising player in South America.
Argentine top-flight side River Plate youngster Mastantuono has drawn comparisons to Enzo Fernández for showing mature performances in Argentina’s top tier, showing technical skill and maturity way above his years.
Although Mastantuono’s €45 million release clause is a concern given Barcelona’s financial state, sporting director Deco views the teenager as a long-term strategic investment.
The club can attempt to seek out innovative solutions, such as payment schedules or future buyout options, to sign him.
But they will have to face stiff competition from European giants like Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester United, all following the rapid improvement of the young Argentine.
The Blaugrana are confident that their well-established model for nurturing youngsters and Flick’s meritocracy model will be a plus point in the war.
While Barcelona weighs short-term squad requirements against long-term planning, their pursuit of Mastantuono is the perfect example of their desire to bring in the next generation of world-class players.
Financial prudence may still hold up any short-term move, but the Catalan giants appear set to jump to the head of the queue for one of world football’s most exciting young midfielders.
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