Having trouble dismantling your opponent? Your best striker is out, along with a few other frequent starts. No issue, simply go back to the academy.
Against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, Barcelona accomplished exactly that by giving 17-year-old attacker Marc Guiu his professional debut in the second half. He was fed by Joao Félix and scored the game-winning goal less than 30 seconds later, defeating goalkeeper Unai Simón to earn Barça a 1-0 victory.
The victory brought the Blaugrana and joint-leaders Real Madrid and Girona within one point. The Clásico the next weekend is well set up by this.
Barça had a difficult time defeating an outstanding Athletic team coached by their old coach Ernesto Valverde as starters Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Jules Koundé, and Raphinha watched from the sidelines with injuries. Simon made a strong save from Fermn López, another young player who has appeared out of nowhere this season for Barça, after Felix had nearly hit the crossbar.
However, Athletic were more than just a match for them in the Olympic Stadium. Iaki Williams, whose brother Nico was also causing issues on the left flank, was twice denied by Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who was in brilliant form.
With just over 10 minutes remaining, manager Xavi Hernandez decided to bring on Spain U-17 international Guiu after also inserting 16-year-old Lamine Yamal and fellow academy grads 20-year-old López, 20-year-old Alejandro Balde, and 19-year-old Gavi. Nothing could have gone more smoothly. He quickly grabbed hold of Felix’s ball and scored a goal he will never forget. La Masia is a constant for Barça.
After 10 games, it makes the top of LaLiga look quite appetizing. Atletico Madrid is next with 22 points and a game in hand, followed by Madrid and Girona, who each have 25 points after beating Almeria 5-2 earlier on Sunday. Barça has 24 points.