Recently, Lamine Yamal received a standing ovation from the crowd at Santiago Bernabeu, a feat achieved by no other than Andres Iniesta, Ronaldinho, and Diego Maradona. With that in mind, here is a look at how La Masia has helped Barcelona during in recent times.
Barcelona’s 2009 Sextuple Team
Barcelona, after years of turmoil following the Dream Team era, produced one of the most historic seasons in footballing history by winning a record-breaking six trophies in a season. Much of the credit for this achievement has to be given to La Masia for producing legendary players such as Lionel Messi, Carles Puyol, Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, and Gerard Piqué.
The success of Joan Laporta’s presidency was greatly influenced by the efforts of La Masia. Under Pep Guardiola’s management, Barcelona achieved immense success, to the extent that there was a time when the team could field an entire 11 of La Masia graduates. In 2010, La Masia become first academy to have its graduates as top 3 of Ballon d’Or: Messi, Iniesta and Xavi.
Change in strategy
Barcelona, despite their huge success as a result of La Masia, tried to change their recruitment strategy by building a team consisting of world-class stars.
Initially, the signings made a huge impact as Luis Suárez and Neymar formed a dream trio with Messi, famously remembered as ‘MSN’. However, things changed drastically when Neymar left Barcelona for a whopping €220 million fee to join PSG. In a quest to replace their star left winger, Barcelona spent huge sums on Ousmane Dembélé and Coutinho, while also investing in Arthur and Frenkie De Jong as the midfield transitioned from the likes of Iniesta and Ivan Rakitić.
Lesser importance was given to La Masia as no special names emerged from the academy. Antoine Griezmann was the final addition in a series of costly signings, plunging Barcelona into a deep financial crisis. With no new signings, Barcelona suddenly looked like a team with no fresh ideas and a lack of talent.
Barcelona is Back
Barcelona is back in top form. Following their UEFA Champions League round of 16 match against Napoli ended in victory, fans are dreaming of a final at Wembley. This Barcelona team is different, with talented young players performing at a level beyond their years. Pau Cubarsi effectively kept Victor Osimhen, a sought-after striker, quiet throughout the night.
His precise passes split the opponents, while Fermin’s runs create numerous attacking chances. Lamine Yamal has made the right-wing position his own, wowing fans with his dribbling skills and unpredictability. Gavi has become an essential part of the starting eleven with his dueling prowess and unmatched passion for the club.
Hector Fort has also delivered brilliant performances at the back when the team suffered injuries in the full-back position. The emergence of La Masia as a result of the financial crisis is truly one of the best things to come out of one of the darkest eras in the club’s history.
Conclusion
It is crucial to keep in mind that these players are all between 16 and 20 years old and have a significant amount of time ahead in their careers. They possess a great deal of potential for improvement in their playing style, decision-making, and understanding of game tempo. As they gain more experience through playing, they will naturally develop these skills.
The team’s senior members, including İlkay Gündoğan and Robert Lewandowski, are exceptional mentors from whom these young players will undoubtedly benefit. La Masia will unquestionably remain one of the club’s most essential components, and the club will make every effort to preserve its most unique identity – their academy.