While European club soccer giants have made it clear they aren’t afraid to spend big money on world-class talent, the best in the business have already transitioned to developing from within. The goal is to get a steady stream of young talent flowing into the program, helping to foster the superstars of future generations.
When it comes to player development, there might only be a handful of club teams that come close to what Barcelona has been able to do over the years. While their hard work and commitment is already paying off, the potential is definitely there for an even brighter future. Barcelona Academy is well-stocked with a slew of young talent, so let’s take a look at six players that could be playing an integral part in the near future.
Sergi Samper – M
Mature beyond his years, the 20-year-old midfielder is considered by many to be a future star at Barcelona where he might very well find himself wearing the captain’s armband one day. Samper is the type of elite talent that is just waiting for a chance to prove himself on the biggest stage and after bursting on to the scene with a spectacular debut against APOEL. So far, he’s made just four appearances with the big club but it might not be long before he launches his breakout campaign as one of their brightest future stars.
Alejandro Grimaldo – M
Another future star that has already gotten a taste of life with the big club is Grimaldo, the 19-year-old who has dazzled with his calm, creativity and skill. He’s played for Spain’s national team throughout his teens, suiting up for Spain U16, U17, U19 and U21. Grimaldo has all of the tools to contribute in La Liga as soon as next season and it’s only a matter of time before the Valencia native gets his chance as he tries to carve out a role among so many elite talents.
Edgar Ie – D
The Portuguese defender has spent the past seven years climbing the ranks after first joining the club as a 13-year-old back in 2008 and he is finally ready for the spotlight as one of the premier up and coming stars. Edgar Ie made his debut against Huesca in the early rounds of the Copa del Rey and didn’t look out of place, so it’s only a matter of time before he is promoted. The centre back position is among the most difficult to play, so look for Barcelona to groom him at the right back position where he is also comfortable playing as they bring him along slowly. That’s a spot where he isn’t as likely to be overwhelmed early on in his career.
Alen Halilovic – M
Nicknamed the “Croatian Messi” since he arrived at Barcelona, there is no doubt that Halilovic has all of the skills to thrive at the highest level. He has added to his reputation with some sensational goals for the B team this season. While does lack a little bit of grounding in the system, he has plenty of confidence in his game. There’s a big learning curve for him but in time he will get his chance to show off that talent at the highest level when he makes his mark for Barcelona.
Adama Traore – F
One of the more powerful strikers in the Barcelona system, Traore is a big body capable of bullying off defenders. He also has the quickness and speed to maneuver around them if necessary to make highlight worthy plays. He’s been given the nickname “La Fletxa de l’Hospitalet” – “the arrow from l’Hospitalet – because of his impressive burst and pace.
The wealth of attacking players at Barcelona’s disposal will delay Traore’s elevation to the big club but that will only mean that the 19-year-old is that much more experienced and ready when he does receive his promotion to the big club.
