Barcelona believe La Masia talent has a real chance of breaking into the first team | OneFootball

La Masia has been a real lifesaver for Barcelona in recent years, producing talents such as Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, Gavi and Pau Cubarsi, among others.

These players have gone on to become key components in Barcelona’s first team, thereby helping the club reduce their reliance on the transfer market.

Now, at a time when Barcelona are struggling with their defence, the club may once again look towards La Masia to provide them with a star talent. And as things stand, everything is pointing towards 18-year-old Hafiz Gariba.

The next big thing from La Masia?

According to SPORT, Barcelona believe that Gariba has a real chance of breaking into the first-team setup if his current growth trajectory continues.

Gariba, who arrived at the club just six months ago, has had a curious but rapid rise. He came from the Marcet Academy and even spent time playing in the lowest tier of Catalan football with CE Codolar just to acquire rhythm.

Since joining Barça, his evolution has been lauded. He is now a mainstay for the Juvenil A side, impressing coaches with his unique blend of skills.

Gariba is described as a fine and elegant centre-back who possesses a high technical quality for playing the ball out from the back.

In addition, he is known for his aggression and competitive spirit, which is hardly surprising given the fact that his idol is none other than Carles Puyol.

Unlike other young prospects, Gariba is not prone to the defensive disconnections that can plague developing centre-backs. This mental strength, combined with his physical and technical potential, has the club excited.

After a brief adaptation period last season, he was promoted to Juvenil A and has been a revelation in both the league and the Youth League.

But whether or not he can convert this early success to a first-team breakthrough remains to be seen.