Ferran Torres' injury: A decisive opportunity for 21-year-old prodigy forward?

FC Barcelona's 3-0 dominant victory against Deportivo Alaves came with major positives, strengthening the club's position at the top of the La Liga table. However, unfortunately, the massive win saw another Barcelona star getting injury suspended as Ferran Torres had to be subbed off early in the game for pivot Eric Garcia.

Ferran Torres' injury: A decisive opportunity for 21-year-old prodigy forward?

While the Blaugrana club looked brilliant in all aspects, Barca boss Hansi Flick, as was expected, looked rather stressed about the injury than the win. Considering the attacking options left after Ferran's injury, prodigy forward Ansu Fati could be seen in a much more prominent role on the left flank. Thus, the question arises: is Ferran Torres' injury a decisive opportunity for the 21-year-old prodigy forward?

So far this season, Ansu Fati has seen less game time this season than was expected since his injury return. However, the last two games have certainly shown promise in the player's forward role, as he has featured for around 50 minutes in the last 2 games combined. Given Ferran Torres' injury coming at such a stage, with Fati's minutes increasing, it could be a brilliant opportunity for the youngster to prove himself.

In Barcelona's recent outing against Alaves, Fati had played a sharp cameo, though he got a bit unlucky as usual. Having played only 23 minutes in the game, Fati clearly showed much more dynamism than he had shown recently, making two attempts at the goal that were stopped by good saves. Although he didn't score, making 10 completed passes and completing a dribble in the minutes he got, he showed that he can be valuable to Flick.

Analyzing the whole scenario more closely, it is clear that Spanish star Ferran Torres is sidelined for at least a month or two, even if he recovers much earlier. In such a case, given Ansu Fati's recent positive display against Alaves, the 21-year-old could significantly rise in Flick's pecking order for the left-wing role. While there are players like Pau Victor competing with him, given Fati's experience of representing Barca, it doesn't seem much of an issue for him.

Overall, Ferran Torres' injury at such a crucial stage in Barca's season, where they would face some of the biggest European clubs next, could be the biggest opportunity for Fati to reestablish himself at the club. Barca fans would hope that the way Flick has helped many star players resurge, Fati becomes the next, playing a key role in the club's season ahead.