Today, FC Barcelona continues to focus on the development and integration of young talents into its first team, especially those who come from its youth academy, La Masia. This strategy reflects the club commitment to youth soccer and highlights players with great potential from the reserve team.
Barça's Commitment to La Masia
FC Barcelona has long been known for its emphasis on developing players from the youth ranks. Players such as Xavi Hernández, Andres Iniesta and, most recently, Gavi, have been a reflection of a philosophy that prioritizes young talent and club identity.
In this sense, Barcelona continues to invest in the youth academy. This is not only done as an economic resource, but as a means to ensure its sporting future.
Barça's reserve team, known as Barça Atlètic, is full of promising youngsters who are hoping to make it to the first team. Some of them, like Pau Cubarsí, have taken important steps toward that goal.
The young center-back, who was playing for the reserve team just a season ago, is now part of the first team. These types of transitions are a clear example of the potential talent that La Masia continues to produce.
The New Jewel of the Reserve Team
Unai Hernández is a footballer who stood out for his performance at Barça Atlètic. The midfielder, who's proven to be a key player in the team, played a total of 36 games last season.
During this time, Unai has been key in attack, with 10 goals and 7 assists, as well as standing out for his vision of the game and mentality. These characteristics have allowed him to stand out in a demanding competition such as Primera Federación[the third tier of the Spanish league system].
What really makes Unai a special player is his versatility. Hansi Flick, who's started to follow Barça's youth academy players more closely, has noticed him for his ability to adapt to different positions.
Unai can play as an inside midfielder, behind the center forward, or even as a false winger on the left flank. This versatility gives him added value to the team, as he can cover different roles depending on what the coach requires.
Unai Hernández: a Player with a Winning Mentality
What really sets Unai Hernández apart from other young footballers is his mentality. He isn't only a player with great numbers. He's also shown a mentality of work and discipline that has allowed him to continue to evolve in his game.
This quality is key to making the transition to the first team, and it's something that has impressed Hansi Flick.
The player hasn't only been productive offensively but also worked in defense, with a high number of balls recovered per game. His involvement in both areas of the field provides balance to the team. This is a key quality that coaches value in order to play at the highest level.