Forget Bastoni – La Masia gem could be the solution to Barcelona’s left-footed centre-back problem
Although Barcelona left Vitoria frustrated after a narrow defeat against Deportivo Alaves, the match may still end up being remembered for one hugely positive development inside the club.For months, B...
Forget Bastoni – La Masia gem could be the solution to Barcelona’s left-footed centre-back problem Although Barcelona left Vitoria frustrated after a narrow defeat against Deportivo Alaves , the match may still end up being remembered for one hugely positive development inside the club. For months, Barcelona have been searching for a new left-footed centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window, with Alessandro Bastoni sitting at the top of the club’s shortlist. Yet after what happened against Alaves, it could be argued that Hansi Flick may already have a solution much closer to home.
Answer within La Masia The biggest surprise of the night arrived when young defender Alvaro Cortes was handed his first-team debut from the start. Few expected Flick to throw the youngster straight into the lineup, but the coach’s decision looked justified. From the opening minutes, Cortes played with maturity far beyond his age.
Calm in possession, aggressive in duels and fearless under pressure, the young centre-back immediately looked comfortable at the senior level. One of the most encouraging aspects of his display was the understanding he quickly built with Pau Cubarsi. Alvaro Cortes made a fantastic debut.
(Picture credit: Instagram/@alvaarocortes) The two defenders looked naturally balanced together, especially during Barcelona’s buildup play from the back. Cortes constantly demanded the ball and showed no fear when playing out under pressure. Defensively, the academy graduate was equally impressive.