Barcelona 20-year-old defensive prospect trains with first team amid injury woes

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has turned to the club’s academy once again as injuries continue to affect the defensive line.

According to journalist Sergi Capdevila of SPORT, the manager has called up Alvaro Cortes to train with the first team. 

It is said that the 20-year-old defender currently captains Barça Atlètic and is now in line to potentially be included in the squad for the upcoming match against Athletic Club.

It must be noted that Barcelona’s defensive situation has become increasingly complicated in recent days. 

Both starting full-backs, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, have picked up injuries that will keep them out for several weeks.

Their absence adds to the long-term issue involving Andreas Christensen, who is also expected to miss a large part of the season. 

Losing three defenders at once has forced Flick to look for solutions beyond the usual first-team options.

Looking at the solutions

Fortunately for Barcelona, the club continues to produce talented players through La Masia, and Cortes now appears to be the latest prospect given an opportunity.

The 20-year-old centre-back has been a key figure for Barça Atlètic and currently serves as the team’s captain. 

He is a tall, left-footed central defender known for his ability to read the game and anticipate danger early, which is an important aspect of the club’s playing philosophy.

At the moment, Flick still has several senior defenders available, including Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin and Joao Cancelo.

Considering the availability, the likes of Cubarsi, Eric and Araujo will be reserved for the centre-back duties, while Gerard Martin and Cancelo will take the wings. 

However, with the schedule becoming increasingly demanding, additional depth may be required. 

Earlier in the week, youth players Xavi Espart and Pacifico also trained with the first team.

Now Cortes is expected to follow the same path and could even travel with the squad to the iconic San Mames Stadium.