Aron Yaakobishvili, at 19 years old, has long been one of the most highly-regarded goalkeepers at La Masia. The Hungarian talent is part of a group with Diego Kochen (19) and Iker Rodríguez (16), who all have promising futures to potentially secure a position on FC Barcelona’s first team.
Known as ‘Yako’ at La Masia, he was once on the verge of leaving Barça, but chose to renew his contract after consulting with agent Pini Zahavi. His renewal did not prevent him from being loaned to Andorra this summer. This decision made sense as it allowed him to gain crucial experience in the second division, following a significant season with Juliano Belletti’s Juvenil A team, achieving a treble in the Youth League, Liga, and Copa del Rey.
Yako’s Big Gamble Pays Off
The move to Andorra was risky, as there were no guarantees of being the starting goalkeeper, but Yako believed in his potential, and time has proven him right. The Hungarian goalkeeper has become the first choice for coach Ibai Gómez. “When the coach called me, I was very clear about it, due to the project and what he brought to me,” Yako admitted.
Ibai Gómez: A Key Figure for Andorra
At just 35 years old, Ibai Gómez has become a pivotal part of Andorra’s project, using his direct calls and close relationships with players to convince them to join, despite other offers.
Yako was one of those players who quickly impressed the Andorra locker room with the mindset of a footballer determined to reach the elite level. He has been the starting goalkeeper in the first three matches, and beyond his performance, it is his determination and professionalism that have been most notable to the coaching staff.
“Great Self-Confidence”
On the field, he proves his capability with his feet, a trademark of La Masia goalkeepers, while also managing mistakes effectively. “He’s a very self-confident guy. He maintains a nearly military discipline in training and strongly believes in himself,” say those close to the Andorra team.
In his debut game, he conceded a goal in the 8th minute (a situation where he could have done more), but instead of letting it affect him, he managed to save a one-on-one against the forward in the 20th minute.
This reaction is said in Andorra to define his character. Despite his youth, he has the resilience in adversity seen in much more seasoned players. Barça is keeping a close eye on his development.
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