Frenkie de Jong's situation at FC Barcelona is getting more complicated. The Dutch midfielder, one of the team's pillars, has seen his prominence decrease this season.
As his future at the club becomes uncertain, Joan Laporta already has the right replacement in mind. FC Barcelona, true to its tradition, is once again looking to La Masia. The want a young talent capable of filling the void De Jong might leave.
La Masia: a Talent Factory
La Masia is once again a reference for FC Barcelona, especially after a period of scarce promotion of new players. Recently, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Marc Casadó have emerged as key pieces of the first team. This shows that the blaugrana academy continues to produce high-level talent.
Moreover, new prospects are making their way and some have already had minutes in Hansi Flick's team. One of the most talked-about names in the academy is Fernández, and not just one, but two cousins who could take a spot in the first team: Toni and Guille Fernández.
Toni and Guille Fernández: A Duo for the Future
Toni and Guille Fernández joined FC Barcelona from RCD Espanyol in 2018. Since then, they've grown together, showcasing their quality despite competing with older players. Although inseparable outside of the field, their different playing styles give them a versatility that makes them valuable to the club.
Toni Fernández, the younger of the two, is a player with great potential. At 16, he's already shown flashes of his talent in the reserves and is shaping up to be the possible successor to Frenkie de Jong in the midfield. His versatility, vision, and ability to assist make him ideal for Barça's future.
A Premature Scorer
In September, Toni made history by becoming the youngest scorer for FC Barcelona Atlètic, scoring a goal in the 3-0 victory against Ourense CF.
Additionally, in that same match, he assisted his cousin Guille for the third goal of the reserve. This performance wasn't an isolated incident, as Toni also holds the record for the youngest scorer for Spain's U-17 and U-18 teams.
Consolidation in the First Team
Although Toni and Guille Fernández haven't debuted in LaLiga yet, coach Hansi Flick has already assured that both will have opportunities in Copa del Rey.
The two cousins are under contract until 2027, with an option for two more years, giving them time to establish themselves in the first team. During the preseason, Toni already showcased his quality on the U.S. tour, where he stood out by scoring against Manchester City and AC Milan.
With several teams interested in transfer him this summer, Toni has made it clear that his goal is to succeed at Barça. After overcoming an injury with the national team, the youngster is ready to return to the field and seek his LaLiga debut. Barça's future could be in the hands of La Masia, and Toni Fernández has everything to be key in the midfield.