In recent years, La Masia has produced a number of young diamonds. Among those who have graduated from the illustrious institution are Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, and Fermin Lopez
However, the recent boom in its stocks began with the ascent of Ansu Fati.
During his time with the first squad, the teenager shattered record after record for the club, and he even inherited Lionel Messi’s legendary number 10. Unfortunately, injuries befell him, and he was forced to move on loan to Brighton & Hove Albion with the aim of recovering his form.
Fati could have joined Real Madrid
Fati started his football career with local club Herrera before joining Sevilla’s junior team for his first growth. He joined La Masia at the age of 10 in 2012 and quickly drew the attention of the club’s administration.
However, according to Guillem Balague’s sources, the Catalan institution was not Fati’s sole option eleven years ago.
The player has the option of joining Barcelona’s La Masia or Real Madrid’s Castilla. He ultimately chose the Catalan facility because of its “protective environment.”
After all, the institution in Madrid is no stranger to controversy. Just last month, three Real Madrid academy players were detained for exchanging indecent footage of minors.
Slow start to life in England
Ansu Fati opted to move to Brighton after reassurance of a regular role by the manager Roberto de Zerbi. Yet, his initial weeks at the club have been far from that.
The youngster averages just under 40 minutes per game in his opening three Premier League appearances. In that duration, he has scored one goal and averages 2.7 shots per game.
With his future at the Catalan capital riding on his stint in England, it remains to be seen how Fati fares under the pressure.