Xavi, during the presentation of his football camp, emphasized that “the summer will be long”. He referred to the transfer market and the ongoing efforts of the club’s sporting department to strengthen the first team. On Monday, July 10, the squad will kick off preseason training at the Ciutat Esportiva. Xavi made it clear that there will be significant changes in the group between the initial players and the final composition at the end of August. One thing Xavi is certain about is his commitment to closely monitoring the club’s youth academy. He embraced this practice since returning as the coach of Barcelona. Xavi recognizes the immense potential within the youth ranks. Therefore, he already summoned eight players to join the first team during the first phase of preseason.
Unfazed by the criticism suggesting he neglects young talents, Xavi is fully aware of the wealth of talent present in the club’s lower teams. Consequently, he has informed Lamine Yamal, Marc Casadó (the only player who joined the preseason tour last summer), Estanis Pedrola, Ángel Alarcón (recovering from an injury), Unai Hernández, Fermín López, Pau Prim, and Mikayil Faye that they should report to the Ciutat Esportiva on Monday for medical tests before getting down to business.
More to follow
However, these eight players won’t be the only ones present. Four or five more academy prospects are expected to join the first team. The likely candidates include Chadi Riad, Diego Kochen, and Marc Guiu, although their confirmation is pending due to various reasons. Aleix Garrido, currently representing Spain in the U19 European Championship, is also subject to potential inclusion.
Xavi aims to assess these talented youngsters on the field before finalizing the squad that will embark on the preseason tour of the United States. Not all players who commence preseason training will make the trip. The roster will be shaped by both incoming and outgoing transfers during the transfer window.
As the new season approaches, Xavi’s emphasis on youth development and the integration of academy players highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing young talents and maintaining a strong connection between the first team and the renowned La Masia academy. The preseason will serve as a crucial opportunity for these promising players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot in the first-team plans for the upcoming campaign.
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