Youth Takes Center Stage: Barça’s Focus for 2024-25

As the current season approaches its conclusion, and with Barcelona still competing in both La Liga and the Champions League, the club’s sporting direction, led by Deco, is already planning for the squad of the upcoming campaign. While the identity of the future coach remains uncertain, decisions are being made regarding the players who will don the first-team jersey for the 2024-25 season.

Four young talents from the Barça B team or the youth setup have made significant contributions this season, joining other emerging stars like Gavi, Balde, or Fermín, who have already become integral members of the first team. These players are Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Héctor Fort, and Marc Guiu.

Lamine Yamal, at just 16 years old, impressed during preseason and earned a spot in the first team. He has featured in 39 matches, contributing six goals and seven assists while becoming a regular under Xavi. A fixture in the Spanish national team setup, Yamal is poised to continue his development with the first team next season, regardless of the coach. With a contract until 2026 and a release clause of €1 billion, negotiations are already underway for his next deal when he comes of age.

Similarly, Pau Cubarsí has secured his place in the first-team squad for next season. Drafted in due to defensive injuries, the Catalan center-back made his debut in the Copa del Rey against Unionistas de Salamanca and has since become a stalwart under Xavi’s guidance. With standout performances against the likes of Napoli and Atlético Madrid, Cubarsí’s ball-playing abilities have earned high praise from Xavi, who considers him the best ball-playing defender in his squad. At just 17, Cubarsí has already received a call-up to the Spanish national team and is in line for an improved contract.

Héctor Fort, although not as prominent as Yamal and Cubarsí, has shown his quality whenever called upon by Xavi. The 17-year-old has made seven appearances for the first team, impressing particularly against Athletic Bilbao and Atlético Madrid. Primarily a right-back, Fort has displayed versatility by excelling on the left flank as well. With financial constraints affecting Barcelona, Fort is earmarked to fill one of the four full-back spots next season, with discussions underway for a contract extension.

Lastly, Marc Guiu, at 18 years old, has featured in seven matches for the first team this season, scoring two crucial goals, including one against Athletic Bilbao. A natural goalscorer, Guiu is a regular in Xavi’s matchday squads and is expected to transition to the B team next season while remaining part of the first-team setup.

As Barcelona continues to nurture its young talents, securing their futures and integrating them into the first team remains a top priority for the club’s sporting management.