FC Barcelona is going through a complicated phase in terms of managing its youth academy. In a single day, two young prospects from La Masia have decided to leave the club to join teams in Saudi Arabia. Unai Hernández and Pau Prim, two of La Masia's great prospects, are about to leave Barça, which reflects a missed opportunity.
Unai Hernández: An unexpected sale
Unai Hernández has been one of the most outstanding players of Barça's reserve team, scoring 9 goals so far. However, his future at the club seems to be coming to an end. The attacking midfielder from Malgrat de Mar, at 20 years old, has expressed his discontent for not receiving an opportunity in the first team.
Months ago, his agent and Deco negotiated his renewal, but the club hasn't offered him the opportunity he expected. His contract ends this summer and, due to the lack of opportunities in the first team, Unai has decided to seek other options.
His likely destination is Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, managed by Ramón Planes, former sporting director of Barça. The operation could bring Barça an income close to 5 million euros. Unai Hernández has already requested not to be drafted anymore while the details of his transfer are solved, making his departure almost imminent.
Pau Prim: Another talent leaving
Pau Prim's case is similar to Unai's, although with some differences. Pau Prim, who has been compared several times to Sergio Busquets, is considered one of the most talented midfielders of La Masia.
However, the 20-year-old has decided not to renew his contract with Barça, making his departure increasingly likely. His lack of minutes in the first team and his recent disappearance from the club's plans have accelerated his exit.
Al-Qadisiyah, managed by former footballer Míchel, has shown interest in signing Prim. Barça, seeing that the player finishes his contract in summer and has no intention of renewing, won't hinder his departure. Pau Prim, noted for his vision of the game and distribution ability, could leave for free, which would be a great loss for the club.
The frustration of the youth players
Both players, Unai Hernández and Pau Prim, feel frustrated for not having received opportunities in Barça's first team, which has led to their decision to leave.
Despite their talent, they haven't been able to compete with the first team's stars, which has accelerated their departure from La Masia. That could have been avoided if they had been given opportunities.