La Masia is the biggest blessing for FC Barcelona in recent seasons. The academy has worked overtime to keep churning players for the first team who have since gone on to make it big and this seems to be the start of yet another golden generation at the club.
The likes of Ansu Fati, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Hector Fort, Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal have all emerged through the academy in recent seasons and gone on to have varying impact in the first team.
Meanwhile, La Masia is still not done, as it continues to nurture the next crop of players for the first team. Now, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona Atlètic manager Albert Sanchez has tipped one name who deserves an opportunity in the first team.
The manager has named Dani Rodríguez as the player who deserves a first-team chance. Having just returned from an injury, the 19-year-old netted a brace to pull his team back level after trailing 2-0 in the game. Here is what the manager had to say:
“I hope Dani gets the opportunity. That’s what we’re here for. He’s a Barça-style winger with a lot of potential.”
Barcelona's Daniel Dani Rodriguez celebrates after scoring during a soccer game between Spanish FC Barcelona and Belgian Royal Antwerp FC, on Tuesday 19 September 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on day 1 of the UEFA Youth League competition.
Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images
Dani himself had a few words to say after that inspirational performance. He admitted that the last few months had not been easy. The player said:
“It’s been a tough few months, with a lot of hard work. I’ve tried to come back in the best way possible to help the team. I’m very happy. We’re working very well. It’s a shame about the 2-2 because the team fought until the end. I leave with really good feelings, and we’re going to keep fighting.”
Anyone who has seen Rodriguez play will undoubtedly recognize his talent. He’s a clever dribbler who can provide valuable support in wide areas for the attack. If he continues to improve, his end product could become even more refined.
It remains to be seen how long it will take before the 19-year-old makes his first-team debut under Hansi Flick. If he keeps delivering performances like this, it won’t be long before that happens. Let’s wait and see how it unfolds.