The transfer strategy of Barcelona and Real Madrid last summer was very much alike, especially when it came to improving the attack.
While Barcelona signed Roony Bardghji for €2.5 million and Marcus Rashford on loan, Real Madrid signed one of the finest young talents in South America, Franco Mastantuono, for a fee reaching up to €63 million.
Two players heading the opposite directions
A recent report from Diario AS has highlighted how Barcelona sporting director Deco’s €2.5 million bet on Bardghji is actually paying off, whereas Mastantuono is heading in the opposite direction.
After impressing in the pre-season campaign, many expected Bardghji to earn a lot of action this season. While that didn’t exactly come, largely due to an already packed attacking unit, Bardghji has made full use of the limited opportunities so far.
His numbers speak for themselves. He has scored two goals and four assists in just 413 minutes. Under Hansi Flick, he has evolved rapidly, with his market value already quadrupling to an estimated €10 million.
Bardghji, who was born in Kuwait and received a hero’s welcome from fans in Saudi Arabia, seized his moment in the Super Cup semi-final.
Roony Bardghji of FC Barcelona
Roony Bardghji was hero of Barcelona against Athletic Club. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
With Lamine Yamal rested from the start, the winger dazzled, playing a key role in the opening goal and scoring the third himself.
Meanwhile, the squad formed a guard of honour earlier this week, not only for Eric Garcia’s birthday but to welcome Roony Bardghji to the first team proper.
The Swedish winger, previously registered with the reserves, has been officially handed the number 19 shirt.
All of this is in contrast to Mastantuono’s situation at Real Madrid. After enjoying quite an impressive start to the campaign, the Argentine has completely fallen out of favour since returning from an injury.
Xabi Alonso is no longer considered a key component in the Real Madrid frontline, with the forward featuring in just 14 minutes of league action since his return.
This goes to show that Deco’s gamble with Bardghji has paid off nicely, and while securing game-time could still be difficult for Bardghji, Barcelona have a player who has potential and will be willing to wait.