Lamine, Lopez, Gavi and now, Cubarsi: Barcelona’s La Masia is a Goldmine and the Blaugrana Are Starting to Realize It
Barcelona defeat Napoli in the last-16 of the UEFA Champions League, but it was 17-year-old Cubarsi who made the spotlight
Barca’s victory over Napoli represents the essence of youth development and the reason why clubs must invest in the growth of homebred players. Barcelona’s La Masia have in the past produced youngsters who went on to cement their name as legends of the club with the likes of Messi, Xavi and Iniesta topping the list.
Barcelona beat Napoli 3-1 in last night’s UCL encounter to book a slot in the quarter-finals. However, it was a 17-year-old Cubarsi who stole the show with his spotless and astute defending against one of Europe’s most feared striker, Victor Oshimen
According to Opta, the 17-year-old defender broke no sweat as he completed 50+ passes (68/100), 100% tackles (3/3) and 5 perfect clearances to scoop the award for Man of The Match.
DID YOU KNOW?
Barcelona became the first team in the Champions League to hand two players who are aged 17 a start in a UCL knockout game. Lamine Yamal - 16 years and 243 days and Cubarsi - 17 years and 50 days.
Like Liverpool, as seen at the Carabao Cup final, Barcelona are starting to mine their talents and putting more faith in youngsters.
Hopefully, this newly found talents stay fit and not succumb to pressure from fans and injuries that has impede other young Barca players like Andy, and Gavi in recent times.
