Barcelona : Valverde names 2 probables for promotion from B team
Ernesto Valverde has provided some clarity on the club’s youth development project
La Masia has taken a back seat at Barcelona ever since Gerardo Martino took over as head coach to replace Tito Vilanova. But from next season, the famed youth development project of Barça is expected to be restarted by Ernesto Valverde.
Valverde has made many big-money signings, but despite splashing the cash, the Basque coach realises the importance of La Masia at Barça. He has revealed his plans for integrating La Masia graduates into the first-team squad next season.
Valverde plans to promote Carles Aleña to the first-team squad next season, to compete with Paulinho for the spot of backup midfielder. Oriol Busquets is also a candidate for promotion, but he has been struggling with injuries.
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If Busquets gets a promotion, he can provide backup to Sergio Busquets, who hasn’t had a proper backup since Sergi Roberto moved into the right-back position. But the more important promotion would be for Aleña.
He has been impressing for the B team for a long time, and has been their top goalscorer this season. Ideally, Aleña should have been promoted last season, but Luis Enrique elected to give another opportunity to Arda Turan after he endured a terrible season.
Now, he can finally make an impact on the big stage and take the first step in realising his huge potential. If he continues his development in a positive fashion, he can the one to truly succeed Xavi in midfield.
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But the management should execute this operation properly, and Ernesto Valverde should give them game time.