Barcelona continue looking toward the future with one clear idea: finding solutions from within. And in a role as specific as the left wing, La Masia currently offers a very interesting range of profiles for the first team.
From natural wingers to converted attacking midfielders, Barça’s academy is full of different kinds of talent. They all bring different qualities, but they share the same objective: reaching the top.
These are the names that stand out as real options to play as the left winger for Barcelona in the years ahead.
Dani Rodríguez, the most decisive talent
The most established name is Dani Rodríguez, who is 20 years old. He is the most mature winger in the group, although his development has been affected by injuries.
His biggest strength is his ability to decide games with individual actions. Fast, powerful and an excellent dribbler, he is a very difficult player to stop in one-against-one situations. He also stands out for his passing.
Although he feels more comfortable when cutting inside from the opposite side, he can perform on the left without any problem. On top of that, he has already had contact with the first team and knows what competitive football demands.
Juan Hernández, direct and unpredictable
Another very interesting profile is Juan Hernández, who is 18. He has become one of the most regular players at Barça Atlètic and stands out for his direct style.
He can play as an attacking midfielder, but he can also adapt to the role of a left winger. He is quick, brave in one-against-one situations and dangerous with shots from distance.
His ceiling is considered very high, and he is already seen as one of the most exciting talents in the academy. He has also been involved at times around the first-team environment.
Tunkara, one of the biggest gems
Among the younger names, Ebrima Tunkara, aged 16, stands out strongly. Left-footed, powerful and highly technical, he is one of the biggest promises in La Masia.
Even though his natural role is closer to midfield, he has been shining this season in a wider attacking role. He has a natural ability to create both goals and assists.
His potential is enormous, and he has already taken important steps by competing at higher levels than his age group.
Álex González, power and finishing
Álex González, aged 19, is another name to watch closely. He arrived recently from Damm and has already made an immediate impact.
He stands out for his physical strength and striking ability. He is the kind of player who can score and assist naturally.
Although he likes receiving the ball to feet, he can also attack space well and give real depth from the left side.
Ajay Tavares, speed and dribbling
The English player Ajay Tavares, aged 16, is seen as a bet for the future. He is quick, technical and capable of playing on either wing.
Because he is right-footed, he can also play from the left while cutting inside. He is still in the process of adapting fully to the Barça style, but the raw talent is obvious.
Iu Martínez, the one in the best form
One of the most impressive wingers in the academy right now is Iu Martínez, also 16 years old. He is arguably the most in-form left winger in the system.
Fast, powerful and fiercely competitive, he stands out for his ability to beat defenders and create danger constantly. He can both assist and finish well himself.
He also brings strong defensive work and a real collective commitment, which gives him even more value.
Ruslan Mba, the purest winger of them all
Finally, there is Ruslan Mba, aged 16. He is the purest natural left winger of the group.
Small, explosive and technically gifted, he stands out especially because of his left foot. He is one of the most electric profiles in the academy and one with very high potential.
That said, he still needs to improve in terms of consistency and defensive contribution.
A future full of options
Barcelona know the talent is already at home. La Masia once again offers real solutions, with very different profiles for the same role.
Now it will come down to time, development and opportunity. But one thing is already obvious: the future of Barça’s left wing is also being built from within.
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