Over the years, La Masia has produced some of the best talent in the world.
From Lionel Messi to Lamine Yamal, through the eras the Spanish academy has provided football with unbelievable players.
However, sometimes, players slip through the grasp of the Blaugrana.
Thiago Alcantara is a standout La Masia graduate who achieved much more after departing.
Andre Onana is also a recent example, especially during his time at Inter Milan.
Another great player who never played for Barcelona’s first team is Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo.
In 2016 the Spanish fullback was sold to Benfica for £1.5million.
During his time he Portugal, Grimaldo got solid minutes but he would not be recognised on an international level until 2021 when he joined Bayer Leverkusen.
Under Xabi Alonso, the Spanish left-back truly blossomed and he is now considered one of the best fullbacks in the world
Speaking in an interview with Sport, the Bayer Leverkusen star admitted that a goal of his is to return to La Liga.
“It is a goal that I have. I have it very clear in my head, even the club knows it.
“I want to return to Spain in the medium and short term and I would like to try the experience of being in Spain because, in the end, it is my country.”
When asked about his time in La Masia, Grimaldo spoke fondly, admitting it is still his goal to play for the Barcelona first team.
“I grew up at La Masia, it’s the club where I’ve grown as a player and as a person and it’s the club I dreamed of playing for since I was a child.
“I remember some interviews as a child in which I already said that my dream was to reach the Barça first team And that has always remained my dream”
Whilst it would be a great return, Grimaldo probably does not fit into Joan Laporta and Deco’s plans.
Grimaldo’s contract does end at the German club in 2027 so we could see him return to Barcelona for free and share minutes with the very highly rated Alejandro Balde.
But when it comes to an actual transfer, this seems far from the Blaugrana’s priority.
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