Over the years La Masia has produced some of the brightest talents, who have gone on to become club legends for Barcelona. The latest in the long line of names is Ansu Fati, who has already stolen the attention of the football pundits all over the world.
Now Sport reveals that Juventus want to include Fati in the Pjanic deal, but Catalan club are averse to this idea. With the transfer window approaching and Barcelona being linked to the likes of Martinez and Neymar, not letting go of Fati could mean that the manager has some grand plans for him.
The phenomenal talent of Ansu Fati
The youngster, although an outright La Masia product, has developed a style which cannot be called the typical Barca way. While the other players are more comfortable at keeping the ball at their feet and holding on to possession, Fati is someone who can sprint down the wings. Although he could be more physically developed for a boy of his age, the 17-year-old does not lack in creativity. He has excellent dribbling skills which have been at display this season culminating in 1.1 dribbles per game in the league.
The Spaniard has also taken 1.4 shots per game this term, scoring four goals in his 16 appearances. Indeed, Fati is also a team man making 0.8 key passes per match and completing 82.9% of his overall passes. These numbers may look very average at the moment, but it cannot be forgotten that at such a premature age, he has been thrown into the first team and asked to rub shoulders with some of the biggest stars in the world in front of a huge crowd every time.
His future at the club
The injury to Suarez and Dembele has helped Fati get the opportunity to play in the senior team, but his sheer talent and hard work have ensured his place in the squad. At this moment, there are five forwards in the team vying for three spots in the side.
Moreover, the club may decide to bring in reinforcements, and that could jeopardise the imminent future of Fati in the side. In this situation, the manager may choose to send Fati on loan, and that cannot be regarded as the worst option, considering his tender age and scope of development with regular playing time.
However, if Setién decides to keep him at the club for the upcoming season, the young player could provide a new dimension to the Cules game with his direct approach and unique skills. Fati could come in handy against high pressing sides in the European competitions as he would be able to open up their defence better than the current Barca crop. Also, it would be great for the Spain U-21 man to stay at the club and learn the tricks of the game from the very best in the business.
It is not without a reason that Ansu Fati has earned the reputation of being the youngest player to don a Barca shirt in the La Liga, and that could culminate into greater things for him in the future.
Stats from Whoscored.
