La Masia: The cantera prospects being pushed through early

La Masia: The cantera prospects being pushed through early

Albert Roge looks at the kids who have been promoted early because of their glistening qualities

In Barcelona's cantera every detail is worked on and thought about in search of perfection. One of the elements with more emphasis during the season is the way the squads are put together. Pep Segura, in charge of Juvenil A and B, works with Jordi Roura and Aureli Altimira, along with the coaches so that the youth sides can put out the best possible teams. 

Barcelona have an A team and a B team in each football category. In the A are players in their second year, and B first year. However sometimes a player can be accelerated and move forward. This year there are five players deemed good enough for that. 

The best is Abel Ruiz. Born January 29, 2000, he's one of the most valued Masia players. The Valencian forward played in the Juvenil category last season despite being at Cadete level and this year is in Juvenil A's squad. His goalscoring capacity and good physique makes him an important player in Gabri's team. He is Spain's U17 captain. 

Three players have been promoted rapidly to Cadete A. Anssumane Fati, Oct 31 2002, is a great jewel of the cantera. Back from a serious injury, he's showing what he's capable of with some spectacular goals. Since his arrival, he's played with kids above his age, and his performance has always been good. 

The second is Pablo Moreno. He went traight to Infantil A after a great season as record goalscorer. Born May 3, 2002, Moreno debuted in the Alevin category and key in his signing were Albert Puig and Guillermo Amor, who convinced his family during their visit to La Lasia. 

The third is Nico Gonzalez. Jan 3, 2002. He's always been known as the son of Fran, the legendary winger who played in the Super-Depor team. He arrived from Galician side Montaneros and has always played in the centre of the pitch. He's currently deployed as the pivote thanks to his good positioning and intelligence. 

Meanwhile, in Cadete B is Moriba Kourouma, better known as Ilaix. Jan 19, 2003. He stands out for his great physical attributes and conduction of play. Along with Alex Rico and Robert Navarro, he'll be key for he team this season.

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Messi and Bojan were promoted early too. The most recent is Carles Alena.